Arlington-based Dodson Companies Revitalizes the Urban Union District on Front Street

Dodson Companies has revitalized Arlington’s Urban Union on Front Street, transforming old auto shops and warehouses into top-notch breweries and bakeries — and the company has more in store for phase two.

Just on the edge of Arlington’s historic downtown, the Urban Union District is a walkable block of restaurants, breweries, and entertainment that’s been touted the next Bishop Arts district. Patrons from Urban Union have just a short walk to the downtown theatre, coffee shops, and restaurants once they’ve completed their venture on Front Street.

In just five years, the company has renovated and developed more than 70,000-square-feet of commercial space across eight buildings, welcoming 4 Kahunas Tiki Lounge, the Tipsy Oak gastropub, Hurtado Barbecue Co., Cartel Taco Bar, Lone Star Axe Throwing, and other new hangouts to the district.

The district’s Union Worx Coworking has become a favorite for freelancers, business owners, and entrepreneurs, while Sugar Bee Sweets Bakery, which opened in 2017, can cater to any sweet tooth.

Legal Draft Beer Co., a 15,757-square-foot taproom and patio, serves dozens of locally-brewed beers coming through the tap, straight from Legal Draft’s state-of-the-art equipment made with fresh ingredients.

Serving beers like Nowhere But Texas, Hung Jury Hefeweizen, and Chief Justice Stout year-rounds, the Urban Union’s local brewery can also serve beer-to-go.  

Currently under construction is one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s favorite pizza places, Cane Rosso — expected to open by the end of summer.

Dodson also helped with some development in the Foundry District in Fort Worth and has redeveloped several restaurants and bars in Fort Worth’s Near Southside on Magnolia Avenue and Main Street.

Announcements about the Urban Union Phase II expansion are expected by the start of the summer.