More than 100 people filled a room at the Dallas Zoo Tuesday to provide feedback on the proposed Southern Gateway Deck Park.
The proposed park will be adjacent to the zoo at Interstate 35E between South Ewing and Marsalis avenues.
"I just think that other businesses will come and other families will come," said Cleo Sims. "You've got to put resources in the surrounding areas and take care of the families who've been here forever."
For two decades, Sims has managed a store operated by Dallas County Community Action Committee, a non-profit group which helps low income families. The store is located on the 600 block of East Jefferson Boulevard, near the proposed deck park.
"There are elements that have to change. It just can't be the park," said Sims. "It has to be the park and surrounding areas if we're going to make a difference."
Community members at Tuesday's meeting gave input on the park's amenities. The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for Sept. 20, in which alternatives for conceptual designs will be presented.
