UNIVERSITY PARK CITIZENS

University Park Citizens is a grassroots group of concerned neighbors who want to promote purposeful, innovative planning of our wonderful city.

Purposeful Planning for Snider Plaza

We want a forward-thinking plan that addresses the parking and other challenges thoughtfully and purposefully; specifically, a plan that:

  • Involves the voices of all University Park residents and does not rely on outdated studies,
  • Prioritizes the goal of preserving and enhancing Snider Plaza's charm; and,
  • Creates infrastructure that facilitates walking and cycling and maximizes green space.

Snider Plaza-Rankin Lot Update

Rezoning of Rankin Lot

Impact on Snider Plaza and Beyond

Impact on Snider Plaza and Beyond

  • On June 18, 2019, UP City Council passed a resolution authorizing an eminent domain action to take 3420 Rankin for a public parking facility with no discussion with the landowner or citizens.


  • On March 3, 2020, UP City Council met in closed session to deliberate the purchase of 3420 Rankin from current owner with the intention of building a parking garage. 


  • There will be another closed meeting on March 17, 2020 to continue the discussion.

Impact on Snider Plaza and Beyond

Impact on Snider Plaza and Beyond

Impact on Snider Plaza and Beyond


  • The choices City Council makes will impact all residents who use Snider Plaza for decades.


  • We want City Council to be forthright and transparent about the plan for 3420 Rankin.


  • Residents should have a voice in the future vision of Snider Plaza & other developments that will impact our neighborhood. City Council is not doing that in this case.

Why we question whether a parking garage is necessary

UP City Council is Looking Backward, Not Forward

There's a Big New Parking Garage at the South End of Snider Plaza

There's a Big New Parking Garage at the South End of Snider Plaza

The Mayor and City Council are relying on an out-dated 2008 Snider Plaza Master Plan that's now over a decade old. Adding green space is still a great idea, but we need a forward thinking plan that addresses the parking challenges of Snider Plaza. 

There's a Big New Parking Garage at the South End of Snider Plaza

There's a Big New Parking Garage at the South End of Snider Plaza

There's a Big New Parking Garage at the South End of Snider Plaza

The brand new Hilltop Plaza development at the South end of Snider Plaza includes a multi-story parking garage that opened in November 2019 and it already provides sufficient parking capacity.

SMU Students Have New On-Campus Parking Options

Evolving Technology means Less Parking is Needed for the Future

Evolving Technology means Less Parking is Needed for the Future

Since the City's 2008 Snider Plaza Master Plan was created, SMU has continued to build new on-campus garages, alleviating the need for their students to occupy Snider Plaza parking.

Evolving Technology means Less Parking is Needed for the Future

Evolving Technology means Less Parking is Needed for the Future

Evolving Technology means Less Parking is Needed for the Future

Since the City's last study in 2008, technology like smartphones and ride-sharing have disrupted the transportation marketplace. Indeed, studies confirm that cities need to rethink parking in light of such trends. 

Please Get Involved!

How Can You Help?

  • Contact the UP City Council and let them know you want a voice in what happens to 3420 Rankin. You can send an email to city-council@uptexas.org
  • Speak at Council Meetings. The next meeting is Tuesday, March 17 at 5:00 PM.
  • Post on Social Media. Help spread the word on Facebook, Nextdoor and other social media sites.
  • Inform form your neighbors, family, and friends.
  • Sign up for updates.
  • Donate to the Cause

Community involvement is essential to preserve the charm of our beloved University Park. Thank you!