subURBAN – How downtown fabric shapes North Texas growth

By : J. David Chapman/February 27, 2025

This weekend’s AMA Supercross in Dallas/Fort Worth isn’t just about high-octane racing—it’s a reminder of how dynamic urban energy is fueling suburban success, a central theme in my upcoming book, subURBAN. In North Texas, suburbs like Coppell, McKinney, Southlake, Plano, and Frisco are thriving by embracing principles traditionally associated with bustling downtowns.

These communities have reimagined suburban life by investing in walkability and vibrant mixed-use developments. Sidewalk cafes, local boutiques, and green public spaces give residents a taste of urban charm without the congestion. The streets are not just passageways but destinations that invite leisurely strolls, fostering community interaction and a strong sense of place.

Accessibility is another cornerstone of their success. With improved transit links and innovative mobility solutions, these suburbs ensure that residents can effortlessly connect to major employment centers and cultural hubs. Whether commuting by rail, bus, cycling, or even a short drive, efficient connectivity offers the best of both worlds: peaceful residential neighborhoods with urban convenience at their doorstep.

Economic development further underpins this growth. North Texas suburbs have attracted a diverse array of businesses—from tech startups to boutique retail and artisanal dining—which in turn fuels local job markets and sustains rising property values. This economic vitality creates a positive feedback loop: vibrant communities draw in more investment, further enhancing quality of life and long-term sustainability.

As I immerse myself in the thrill of Supercross this weekend taking me back to my youth, I’m struck by how these trends mirror the broader shifts in urban planning. The integration of downtown elements into suburban planning isn’t just a passing fad—it’s a reimagining of how we live, work, and play. Suburbs today are more than just residential havens; they are thriving, dynamic communities that embody the spirit of the urban core.

In subURBAN, I explore this phenomenon in depth, revealing how the fusion of urban design with suburban development is crafting places where life is both sustainable and enriched by connectivity and community spirit. North Texas offers a compelling blueprint for the future of suburban living—one where the energy of downtown is accessible, even from the suburbs.

With the Stockyards of Fort Worth, home of Joe T. Garcia’s famous Mexican restaurant, and Dallas, home of the Cowboys, Rangers, Mavericks, and Stars, as it’s metropolitan backdrop, the North Texas suburbs are providing a quality-of-life people all over the world are seeking.

J. David Chapman, Ph.D., is professor of finance & real estate at the University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu).