Bridge Removal Disrupts Downtown Dallas Businesses

Akard Street bridge closure cuts off access, hurting local shops and restaurants

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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The removal of a key bridge connecting Downtown Dallas to the Cedars neighborhood has left small businesses along South Akard Street struggling, as foot traffic and visibility have dropped sharply with no direct access expected to return until 2028. Business owners say they were not properly informed about the bridge closure and are now having to rethink how to keep customers coming, calling for clearer signage, adjustments to traffic flow, and more parking options from city and transportation officials.

Why it matters

The Akard Street bridge had long served as a vital connection between downtown and the Cedars, a popular dining and entertainment district. Its sudden closure is having a major impact on the small businesses that rely on that foot traffic, raising concerns about the long-term viability of these local shops and restaurants during the multi-year construction project.

The details

Since the Akard Street bridge over Interstate 30 was taken down in mid-January, business owners say foot traffic and visibility have dropped sharply, turning once-busy streets noticeably quiet. Owners like Val Jean-Bart of Val's Blue Label cheesecake business say they were not properly informed about the bridge closure and are now having to rethink how to keep customers coming, with no direct access expected to return until 2028. Other nearby businesses like Hotel Lorenzo are dealing with confusing detours and signage that are frustrating visitors.

  • The Akard Street bridge over Interstate 30 was taken down in mid-January 2026.
  • Direct access to the Cedars neighborhood is not expected to return until 2028.

The players

Val Jean-Bart

Owner of Val's Blue Label cheesecake business, who moved his shop to the Cedars just a few years ago and is now rethinking how to keep customers coming.

Justin Burton

Managing partner at Hotel Lorenzo, who says confusing detours and signage are creating frustration for visitors.

Jesse Moreno

Dallas City Council member who is planning a meeting with business owners and transportation officials to discuss potential solutions.

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What they’re saying

“They told me it comes back in 2028. The minute I heard that, two years, that's a whole lifetime for a small business like us.”

— Val Jean-Bart, Owner, Val's Blue Label (cbsnews.com)

“As you approach, the turn lane is closed, and then you have a right turn only sign, and then a no right turn sign.”

— Justin Burton, Managing partner, Hotel Lorenzo (cbsnews.com)

“We're not asking for a lot. Just basic city coordination with DOT.”

— Val Jean-Bart, Owner, Val's Blue Label (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

A meeting is planned with Dallas City Council member Jesse Moreno and transportation officials, where business owners hope to discuss potential short-term solutions to improve signage, traffic flow, and parking options while the long-term bridge project continues.

The takeaway

The sudden closure of a vital bridge connecting Downtown Dallas to the popular Cedars neighborhood is having a devastating impact on the small businesses that rely on that foot traffic, underscoring the importance of clear communication and coordination between local government, transportation agencies, and the community when undertaking major infrastructure projects.