There is a huge new development planned on the large area of empty land on Elm Street and Good‐Latimer Expressway, next to what used to be the Knights of Pythias Temple (which is now called the Union Bankers building). The new development, aptly called “The Epic”, will include 250,000 square feet (15 stories) of office and retail space next door to a restaurant and lounge in the Deep Ellum landmark. A boutique hotel is also being planned behind the Union Bankers building as part of the project. There have been many plans for the Knights of Pythias area in the past. When none of their prior plans materialized, Westdale left the lots and existing buildings vacant until preservationists and city officials intervened in 2006.
The Epic project is just part of Westdale’s renewed interest in developing their Deep Ellum properties. In February Westdale announced plans to make‐over the 90% vacant block encircled by Elm, Crowdus, Main Street and Malcolm X Boulevard. And 6 months later, they unveiled their joint venture with StreetLights Residential to build a 17‐story apartment tower just south of Baylor Medical Center at Main and Hall.
Westdale Asset Management Vice President Chuck Hixson is set to formally announce the Epic project at the monthly First Sunday at Sons meeting at the Sons of Hermann Hall on November 1st . This is certainly an exciting time to live in Bryan Place!