Magnitude
Largest Fortune 500 company with a downtown headquarters in a major city.
Sustainability
100 percent powered by wind energy and water harvesting for fountains.
Support
In-house cross-disciplinary support, resulting in a one-stop-shop for the client.
AT&T’s innovative downtown Discovery District is not only company headquarters, but also serves as a mixed-use public plaza. Home to 17 eateries and two bars, as well as a variety of entertainment events, the AT&T Discovery District features visual attractions such as a 30-foot, illuminated globe, AT&T’s symbolic Spirit of Communication statue, and the most advanced media wall in the country.
Prior to the project’s construction and design, several initial studies were required to bring AT&T’s Discovery District to life. Kimley-Horn was brought on in 2015 to conduct an initial feasibility study to determine what Complete Streets improvements could be implemented to create a more walkable, bikeable, and pedestrian-friendly experience. In 2017, Kimley-Horn completed a traffic study that confirmed specific traffic signal and roadway improvements needed for the surrounding area. The study identified sidewalk improvements, one-way and two-way street conversions, and a potential bike route while considering parking demand and access for AT&T employees and the public. Kimley-Horn’s analysis supported the modification of the City of Dallas Thoroughfare Plan to include necessary street closures for the project.
Additionally, our team took part in technical sign code variances for the installation of the site’s 104-foot media wall that covers approximately 9,300-square-feet of the building at corner of Akard and Jackson Streets.
A variety of anticipated and unforeseen project plans resulted in Kimley-Horn providing a wide range of services, including:
- New signal designs
- Existing signal modifications
- Traffic control planning
- Signage and pavement markings
- City license agreement coordination
- Pavement management
- Hydrology/Hydraulic analyses
- Wayfinding signage off campus (highways and city streets)
- Lighting analysis
- Extensive construction phase services
- Complex utility infrastructure design
Overcoming Obstacles
The establishment of AT&T Discovery District required partnering with the City to successfully convert city streets into pedestrian facilities. Our team worked carefully and diligently to help ensure progress while also protecting the rich history of Downtown Dallas. Subsequently, Kimley-Horn was asked to assist with additional unforeseen challenges throughout the project’s design and construction to ensure the project would meet the standards of the stakeholders and the community.
To address the unique challenge of implementing the country’s most advanced media wall into the District, an extensive study was required to ensure its compliance with the City of Dallas Digital Sign Ordinance. Kimley-Horn played a crucial role in this process, ultimately gaining approval for the wall.
Through each stage of planning, design, and construction, our team coordinated communication between AT&T and the City of Dallas to help ensure a successful project.
Project Recognition
- 2021 Urban Design Award; The Greater Dallas Planning Council
- 2021 Best New Mixed-Use Project; D CEO’s Commercial Real Estate Awards
- 2020 Silver Certification; SITES
- 2019 Best Rehab or Reuse Award Best Real Estate Deals; GBCI
