Fate, TX (February 8, 2024) – Monday Fate City Council approved Lafayette Crossing, a 267-acre mixed-use development projected to transform the commercial landscape of the city. This decision comes after years of planning and collaboration between the city and the developer and marks a major milestone for the future growth and prosperity of Fate. Lafayette Crossing will be a vibrant destination that will bring visitors to the community, boost local businesses’ sales, and enhance the city’s economic vitality. Moreover, this development will serve as a catalyst for sustainable growth, create jobs, generate significant net-revenues to the city, and enrich the experience of the Fate and Rockwall County area community.
When asked about the importance of the development to the community, Mayor David Billings shared: “Lafayette Crossing is a one-of-a-kind project that not only meets the requests of our citizens for commercial development, but also paves the way for a prosperous future for generations to come. This development represents more than just bricks and mortar; it symbolizes the city’s commitment to economic opportunity, distinctive identity, and managed growth. By embracing this opportunity, we will create a vibrant destination that not only enhances the quality of life for our residents but also generates positive economic impact and opportunities for businesses to thrive.”
For more than a quarter of a century, the parcel of land situated at the northwest corner of Interstate 30 and Memorial Parkway has remained an untapped resource in this suburban town. However, the prolonged vacancy presents an unparalleled opportunity for growth and reinvestment in Fate. With strategic planning by the city and thoughtful design by the developer, Lafayette Crossing reflects the character and values set forth in the Forward Fate Comprehensive Plan.
The process that led to a landmark decision by the council has been a long time in the making. In 2020, city staff began to update their 25-year plan, commonly known as the “Forward Fate Comprehensive Plan.” Over the course of a year, 16 dedicated members of the community came together to serve on the “Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee” (CPAC), engaging in thoughtful discussions about the future trajectory of development within the city. The advisory committee provided a platform for community members to voice their aspirations, concerns, and ideas for shaping Fate’s future.
Through town hall and online meetings, workshops, surveys and consultations, the participants developed a common vision for sustainable growth, vibrant neighborhoods, and thriving business districts. 
Shane Hollas, CPAC Member, Rockwall Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Chairman, and local business owner stated, “As a member of the Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, thinking about the future development and growth of Fate was top of my mind. I am happy to see the council’s continued support of the Forward Fate Comprehensive Plan through the approval of Lafayette Crossing. Not only will the development bring commercial, retail, dining, and more amenities for our city, but it will benefit our residents as well as bring in tax dollars from outside visitors. These were a few priorities of the team I served with, and I am happy to see that coming to a reality.”
Lafayette Crossing will serve as the catalyst for bringing the Comprehensive Plan’s vision to life.
Developer Jim Wills had the following to say regarding the project, “We want to create a regional destination within Fate that pays respect to the past while establishing fiscal sustainability for future generations. Lafayette Crossing is a high-quality, commercially driven development that will serve as an employment and entertainment hub for Rockwall County. We want the existing neighborhoods to thrive because of this development and support business that are already here. After owning the property for 25 years and with the high standards of the Comprehensive Plan in mind, we are thankful to the City Council, city staff, and citizens of Fate for their support in this development and approval of the entitlements of the property.”
Key Features of the Project Include:
- Retail: A diverse array of shops, boutiques, and restaurants will provide a vibrant retail experience, catering to both residents and visitors.
- Commercial: State-of-the-art office spaces and employment environments will attract businesses, fostering innovation and economic growth. A full-service grocery store and café, hospital, and light manufacturing areas will provide jobs to the development’s anchor sites, while a 120-room hotel provides space for visitors of the community.
- Residential: Thoughtfully designed and integrated residential areas, including duplexes, cottage court units, apartments, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes will offer diverse lifestyle choices in a walkable environment for individuals and families.
- Entertainment & Events: The project will offer widespread opportunities for leisure and recreation for residents and visitors.
- Parks and Greenspace: Expansive greenspaces, pocket parks, an event lawn, and scenic trails will provide residents with opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Lafayette Crossing is expected to break ground in the Fall of 2025 beginning with Phase 1. Planned infrastructure in this phase will include an $11M road to connect Memorial Parkway/FM 551 to Woodcreek Blvd. This should coincide with the planned I-30 expansion project TxDOT is undertaking now. Phase 1 of the development is expected to open around Spring 2028 with commercial and residential opportunities to serve the community.
For more information on the development, you can visit: https://www.fatetx.gov/539/Lafayette-Crossing.
Submitted press release
Fate City Council approves 267 acre Lafayette Crossing mixed-use development added by Melanie M on
View all posts by Melanie M →