Dallas officials have engaged Hillwood Urban Services to assist in the search for a new site for the Mavericks’ arena, according to a report by the Dallas Morning News. The consulting agreement, valued at $75,000 and initiated this spring, did not require approval from the City Council. Hillwood’s responsibilities include evaluating potential locations, conducting feasibility studies, and providing recommendations ahead of the expiration of the Mavericks’ lease at American Airlines Center in 2031.
Details about which sites are under consideration remain undisclosed. Both city representatives and Hillwood declined to specify locations studied. A public records request submitted by the Dallas Morning News was denied on grounds of confidentiality related to ongoing economic development negotiations. The city has appealed to the Texas Attorney General to keep information private, arguing that revealing details could expose incentive offers still being negotiated.
Mavericks CEO Rick Welts stated last month that several possible locations had been discussed with city officials and that two are currently being assessed by the team. However, he noted that “neither may work.” Potential sites mentioned by sources include land near a planned downtown convention center and the former Valley View mall site in North Dallas; county-owned jail property has also been suggested but is not currently part of any formal discussions.
Welts previously managed development of San Francisco’s Chase Center while with the Golden State Warriors. His hiring last year has contributed to speculation about whether a new stadium could be connected to casino development efforts.
Securing financing for a new arena remains uncertain. For example, in San Antonio, plans for a new Spurs arena involve funding from tourism taxes, city contributions, and investment from the team itself.
