As Dallas seeks state designation as a media production hub, the city's Economic Development Commission is eyeing incentives for South Side Studios along Botham Jean Boulevard.
South Side Studios Dallas LLC, a joint venture formed in 2023 between North Texas-based real estate developer Matthews Southwest and Talon Entertainment Finance, is located on a property near Forest Avenue. We are considering investing in several buildings.
Southside Studios already hosts production on television series such as USA's “Queen of the South” and TBN's “The Chosen.”
The existing facility includes approximately 70,000 square feet of stage space and production offices in a building on the west side, and a factory area, wardrobe storage and prop store in a building near Forest Avenue.
The partnership is currently proposing the renovation of a studio production facility with three sound stages, hair and makeup rooms, production offices, concessions, and waiting and break rooms. One of the sound stages will feature an LED virtual production wall.
Additional improvements include roof and air conditioning upgrades and soundproofing.
The expansion of South Side Studios is consistent with Dallas' aim to become both a media production development zone and a qualified media production hub.
Administered by the Texas Film Commission, both states' designations allow for tax breaks to create new jobs and encourage regular capital investment.
Renovations to South Side Studio are estimated to cost approximately $6.2 million, with an additional $1.5 million slated for furniture, fixtures and equipment.
If Southside Studio becomes a state-certified location, construction materials and related materials may be exempt from sales tax. The tax break will save the city of Dallas about $150,000 in sales tax, but it will cost the state about $456,000.
The studio is expected to increase regional economic activity by $13.6 million, according to a study by public policy firm TXP.
Next steps include the City Council authorizing the city as a production zone and proposing the Southside Studio project as an eligible location within the production zone. The City Council is scheduled to consider the issue on May 22nd.
