The Irving Zoning Commission has given its approval to a proposal that could pave the way for the construction of a casino resort and an arena near the former Texas Stadium site. The commission, after several hours of deliberation, voted 5-4 in favor of the zoning changes early Tuesday morning, on March 18th, 2025. This marks a significant step forward for the Sands Corporation, which owns both the Dallas Mavericks and the Las Vegas Sands, in its push to build a large-scale resort and casino complex in North Texas.

Zoning changes approved, the project moves forward:

The decision by the Zoning Commission shifts the direction of a 1,001-acre development area surrounding key highways, including 114, 183, and Loop 12, toward a high-intensity mixed-use zone. A second proposal targets specific land parcels on the northeast side of Highway 114, just across from the old Texas Stadium. These areas, which had previously been designated for transit-oriented mixed-use development, will now also be earmarked for high-intensity use, facilitating the building of both a casino and a potential sports arena.

This zoning change lays the groundwork for the Sands Corporation to potentially move forward with its ambitious plans for the area. While Texas law currently prohibits casino resorts, the approval signals that local officials are prepared to proceed should the state’s legislation evolve. The development’s future hinges on a state-level decision to legalize casino resorts, a change that is not yet confirmed but is anticipated by some as part of ongoing discussions regarding gambling expansion in Texas.

The controversy surrounding the project:

The zoning decision has sparked considerable debate among Irving residents, with mixed reactions during the public comment sessions leading up to the vote. Proponents of the plan, including local officials, argue that the development would create significant economic benefits for the city. Mark Cronenwett, an Irving City Council member, highlighted the potential for increased tourism and a more robust tax base, stressing the opportunity for a major “destination” development at the site of the former Texas Stadium, which has long been underutilized.

“This will drive visitors to our city,” Cronenwett remarked, pointing to the development’s transformative potential for Irving. He emphasized that the project aligns with the city’s vision for revitalizing the area and enhancing its appeal to residents and tourists alike.

However, the proposal has also faced strong opposition from various local residents. Concerns over the negative impacts of gambling, such as increased crime, addiction, and the degradation of community values, have been voiced by many. As WFAA reports, longtime Irving resident Gregory Pimental expressed his unease about the social consequences of introducing a casino to the area. “Bringing casinos and predatory gambling into our community makes Irving just a lot less of a wholesome place,” Pimental said.

Others, like Enrique Mann, raised practical concerns about the potential for traffic congestion in an already busy area. “I don’t want gambling in my town. I don’t know if you have done much driving around Loop 12 at 6 PM on a weekday. It is rough out there,” Mann said, pointing to the existing challenges facing local infrastructure.

Despite the vocal opposition, key figures within the Irving City Council and Zoning Commission continue championing the development. Terry Prichard, a commissioner, noted that the potential influx of tax revenue could benefit the broader community, especially neighboring attractions like the Toyota Music Factory and the convention center. Prichard believes the resort’s success could have a “rising tide” effect, boosting the city’s economy overall.

Meanwhile, the Sands Corporation, which has committed to contributing funds to enhance local law enforcement efforts, has been working to address concerns regarding crime and safety. Despite pledging support to the Irving Police Department, many residents remain skeptical, arguing that the Sands Corporation is primarily interested in protecting its own property while leaving the city to deal with the consequences of its development.

The proposal now heads to the Irving City Council, which will hold a crucial vote on Thursday, March 20. Should the council approve the zoning change, it will move the project closer to becoming a reality, though much uncertainty remains surrounding the legalization of casinos in Texas.