The Neighborhood Experiment Unfolding in Red Bird
One of the most dangerous spots in Dallas has united elected officials, neighbors, developers, cops, and activists intent on changing this pocket of Oak Cliff.

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OUR REPORTING
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She Grew Up in Jails, Now She Keeps Kids Out of Them
Elizabeth Henneke’s Lone Star Justice Alliance spurred reforms of Dallas’ embattled juvenile justice system. Next comes the rest of Texas.
Pushing Forward in Tenth Street
While the city works to fix a wrong, this Oak Cliff neighborhood waits with cautious optimism for long-awaited public investments.
The Quiet Work That Has Changed South Dallas
Diane Ragsdale spent 40 years delivering homes, healthcare, and job training. Her successor faces a challenging market as he continues her legacy.
Can Dallas Sustain its Decline in Violent Crime?
The experts who helped create the city’s public safety strategy are ending their partnership with police. Local officials say that won’t stop momentum.
The Company in Charge of CPS Cases in Dallas Has Been Ousted. Now What?
Empower, which has been under scrutiny after two infants died, will no longer manage child welfare cases in the Dallas area.
What We're Reading
David Woody Walks Back Across The Bridge
The outgoing CEO of the city’s largest homeless shelter on increased demand, FIFA, and the importance of being downtown.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
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The Kids Are All Right at Prosperity Park
How a rubble-ridden lot in Oak Cliff became a safe place for children who do far more than play.
NEIGHBORHOODS
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How Texas’ Foster Care Fix Fell Apart in Dallas
Lawmakers tried to help abused and neglected kids by privatizing the system. But in North Texas, many problems persist.
