Introduction to Jack Matthews and His Real Estate Firm
The driving force behind some of the city’s most successful development projects now owns a nearly 2 million-square-foot industrial complex just south of downtown Dallas. Jack Matthews and his real estate firm Matthews purchased the former Sears Roebuck distribution center at 1600 Roe Street — a nearly 39-acre site, the firm announced Friday.
David Davidson Jr. and Jake Milner of Davidson Bogel Real Estate brokered the transaction. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Plans for the property have not yet been determined, though Matthews indicated the site will have multiple uses. The group wants to hear from the community, investors, tenants, and other key players before making a decision.
Background of the Property
The property was once a hub for Sears’ national retail operations. It later became the Cedars Commerce Center, and the property was most recently occupied by LBA Logistics. The project is Matthews’ latest in three decades worth of investments in the Cedars neighborhood.
“We’ve created a destination that draws nearly 1.8 million visitors annually to the Cedars,” Matthews said in a statement. “We believe that with the right plan, this can be a flagship property that will more than double commercial activity in the area — a fully mixed-use property that all of Dallas can enjoy,” he added.
Other Projects by Jack Matthews
Other projects in the neighborhood feature the Southside development that includes the preservation of the landmark Sears Roebuck buildings, construction of residential units, and development of the Canvas South Side hotel. He also donated land in the area to the city for a new police headquarters.
Beyond the Cedars, Matthews’ Inspire Dallas was hired to oversee the $3.7 billion convention center redevelopment. The city approved a six-year, $65 million deal with his company back in 2023. In 2011, his Matthews Southwest developed the $500 million, more than 1,000-room Omni Hotel adjacent to the convention center.
Matthews’ Development Company
One of his company’s key restoration projects involved the conversion of the more than century-old Dallas High School on Bryan Street into office space. Matthews’ development company operates in North America, Europe, and the Middle East and includes five divisions — Matthews Hospitality, Matthews West, Matthews Energy, Matthews Switzerland, and Inspire Dallas.
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City officials and real estate experts say they would like to see the arena downtown. It remains to be seen whether a refurbished Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center would be the best fit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jack Matthews and his real estate firm have made significant investments in the Cedars neighborhood, with the latest being the purchase of the former Sears Roebuck distribution center. The plans for the property are still undecided, but it is expected to have multiple uses and increase commercial activity in the area. Matthews’ development company has a strong track record of successful projects, including the Southside development and the convention center redevelopment.
FAQs
Q: Who purchased the former Sears Roebuck distribution center?
A: Jack Matthews and his real estate firm Matthews purchased the property.
Q: What are the plans for the property?
A: The plans for the property have not yet been determined, but it is expected to have multiple uses and increase commercial activity in the area.
Q: What other projects has Jack Matthews been involved in?
A: Jack Matthews has been involved in several projects, including the Southside development, the convention center redevelopment, and the development of the Omni Hotel.
Q: What is the expected outcome of the convention center redevelopment?
A: The expected outcome of the convention center redevelopment is to increase commercial activity in the area and potentially clear the site for a new Mavs arena.
