While at Biederman Redevelopment Ventures (BRV), RE.CO founder Rodrigo Rodarte was instrumental in introducing innovative public programming and daily amenities to Fair Park, a historic park primarily known for the State Fair of Texas and large-scale trade events. In 2019, management of Fair Park transitioned from the City of Dallas to Fair Park First, a nonprofit foundation, marking a significant shift intended to reconnect the park with the surrounding South Dallas community.

Historically, Fair Park had psychological and physical barriers that kept South Dallas residents from fully enjoying the space. To change this long-held perception, BRV initiated small-scale, visitor-oriented experiments designed to make the park welcoming. Partnering with local businesses and arts organizations, BRV introduced pop-up events such as storytime sessions, nature explorations, and drum circles. They also installed vibrant park furniture, recreational games, and sports equipment. Despite the intense July heat in Dallas, these initiatives successfully attracted local families eager to reclaim Fair Park as a year-round public space rather than solely as fairgrounds.

To provide relief from the summer heat, BRV activated one of the park’s large exhibition halls with temporary roller rinks featuring music, cultural performances, and dance lessons.

This summer programming served both as a community engagement platform and a pilot project, informing long-term plans for substantial capital improvements, including the creation of a historic neighborhood park within the Fair Park grounds.