Dallas Mavericks Weigh Two Arena Sites: Transit Access Key Factor

Team seeks fan input on downtown City Hall or Valley View Mall locations as lease at American Airlines Center nears expiration.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:09am

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The Dallas Mavericks are considering two potential sites for their next arena - the former Valley View Mall location in Far North Dallas and a downtown site tied to the current City Hall property. Transportation access and connectivity are emerging as central factors in the decision, with the Valley View site offering direct highway access but the downtown location benefiting from existing DART light rail and commuter rail options.

Why it matters

The choice of arena location will shape traffic patterns, parking demand, and long-term transit planning across the Dallas region, while also impacting economic development in either the North Dallas or downtown areas.

The details

The Mavericks have sent a survey to season ticket holders and Club Maverick members seeking input on preferred locations, amenities, ticket options, and examples of modern venues. The team's lease at American Airlines Center expires in 2031, and leadership hopes to select a site by summer with the new venue ready for the 2031-32 season. The Valley View location offers direct access to LBJ Freeway, the Dallas North Tollway, and Preston Road, providing quicker drives for fans from northern suburbs. It also has room for large parking facilities and potential ride-share or bus loops. The downtown site near City Hall sits at the convergence of major highways while already benefiting from DART light rail and the Trinity Railway Express, giving fans car-free options.

  • The Mavericks' lease at American Airlines Center expires in 2031.
  • The team hopes to select a site by summer 2026 with the new venue ready for the 2031-32 season.

The players

Dallas Mavericks

A professional basketball team that plays in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Rick Welts

The CEO of the Dallas Mavericks.

Cara Mendelsohn

A Dallas city council member who commented on the transportation options at the Valley View Mall site.

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What they’re saying

“There are 3 highways that converge at Valley View (LBJ, Tollway & SH287/Preston) & space was reserved along LBJ/635 if anyone wants to put rail in to connect with Red Line. Also, a 'people mover' is funded by NCTCOG to take folks from the DART Silverline to Valley View.”

— Cara Mendelsohn, Dallas City Council Member

“Mavericks CEO Rick Welts has confirmed ongoing talks with the city about keeping the team in Dallas and creating a year-round vibrant district.”

— Rick Welts, CEO, Dallas Mavericks

What’s next

City officials are running a separate 'Open Call for Concepts' survey on the future of City Hall and surrounding properties, with input due by May 3. No final decisions have been made, and both arena site options remain under active review by the Mavericks.

The takeaway

The decision on the Mavericks' new arena location will have significant implications for transportation, economic development, and the long-term growth of Dallas, as the team weighs the pros and cons of a suburban site with highway access versus a downtown location with existing transit options.