PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP | PUBLIC POLICY | STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT
Michael "Mike" Grace, AICP, MRCP
Building Stronger Communities Through Leadership, Collaboration & Strategic Development
With more than 20 years of experience spanning land development, municipal government, public policy, and business development, Michael "Mike" Grace has dedicated his career to navigating complex challenges, advancing meaningful initiatives, and building relationships that help communities and organizations move forward.
His professional background combines technical expertise in planning and development with extensive leadership experience across government, business, and civic organizations throughout Dallas–Fort Worth and the State of Texas.
Founder, Metro Development Consulting | Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas
Experience. Leadership. Perspective.
A Career Built on Connecting People, Policy & Progress
Michael "Mike" Grace, AICP, MRCP, is a North Texas development strategist and public policy professional whose career reflects a commitment to responsible growth, effective leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.
With more than two decades of professional experience, Mike has worked across municipal government, comprehensive planning, land development, economic development, public policy, and business development.
His experience includes navigating land entitlements, coordinating with public agencies, managing complex development processes, representing projects before boards and commissions, and helping organizations understand the policies and procedures shaping development decisions.
Throughout his career, Mike has developed a comprehensive understanding of how public policy, private investment, infrastructure, and community priorities intersect. As the founder of Metro Development Consulting, he applies that experience to helping developers, property owners, investors, and organizations navigate development opportunities throughout North Texas.
Beyond his consulting work, Mike has contributed to statewide leadership organizations, regional planning initiatives, and civic institutions focused on addressing important issues affecting Texas communities.
His approach to leadership emphasizes thoughtful communication, informed decision-making, professional integrity, and the value of meaningful relationships.
Areas of Deep Expertise
KNOWLEDGE DEVELOPED THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Professional Journey
A career built through economic development, municipal operations, public policy making, regulatory enforcement and direct engagement at every level of the development process.
Leadership & Professional Service
BEYOND THE BOARDROOM
Advancing Conversations That Shape Communities
Throughout his career, Mike has remained engaged in organizations that bring together leaders from government, business, planning, and civic institutions.
His involvement reflects a commitment to informed public policy, collaborative leadership, and strengthening the communities and institutions that influence Texas's future.
Greater Dallas Planning Council
Former President-Elect & Vice President of Issues
Mike previously served in leadership positions with the Greater Dallas Planning Council, including President-Elect and Vice President of Issues.
In these roles, he led task forces addressing important regional public policy initiatives and contributed to discussions involving:
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Housing and land use policy
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Regional transportation systems
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Trinity River corridor initiatives
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Stormwater management and water resources
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Development and infrastructure planning
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Public engagement and regional collaboration
His work helped bring together diverse perspectives to examine challenges facing the Dallas region and support informed conversations around long-term growth and development.
During his tenure, collaboration with the Texas Trails and Active Transportation Conference resulted in the 2016 Partnership Award.
His broader contributions and impact were subsequently recognized with the Greater Dallas Planning Council's 2017 President's Award.
The Texas Lyceum
Former Director | Alumni
In 2017, Mike was selected to serve as a Director of The Texas Lyceum, a statewide leadership organization dedicated to developing the next generation of Texas leaders.
During his six-year term, he served in leadership capacities on two executive committees.
The Texas Lyceum brings together leaders from business, government, and other professional sectors to explore issues affecting the state's future.
Its mission emphasizes identifying and developing leadership, encouraging informed discussion of major statewide issues, and strengthening relationships among individuals committed to Texas's long-term success.
Through his involvement, Mike participated in a network of professionals engaged in examining the interconnected economic, political, and social issues shaping the state.
Today, he remains an alumnus of the organization.
SMU Dallas Institute for Humanities and Culture
Fellow
Mike currently serves as a Fellow of the Dallas Institute for Humanities and Culture, which merged with Southern Methodist University in 2025.
His affiliation reflects his continued involvement in intellectual exchange, civic dialogue, and the exploration of issues affecting communities and society.
The institute's focus on humanities, culture, and thoughtful discussion complements Mike's professional interests in leadership, public policy, and community development.
Awards & Professional Recognition
RECOGNIZING LEADERSHIP & CONTRIBUTION
Professional Philosophy
THE PRINCIPLES BEHIND THE WORK
Leadership Begins With Clarity,
Communication & Collaboration
"Leadership is the alignment between the ability to empower others and the ability to clearly communicate objectives."
Michael "Mike" Grace, AICP, MRCP
Throughout his career, Mike has approached leadership with an understanding that meaningful progress requires more than technical knowledge.
It requires the ability to listen, communicate complex information clearly, build trust, and bring people together around common objectives.
Whether navigating a development project, addressing regional policy issues, or serving within a professional organization, his work reflects the importance of preparation, accountability, and informed decision-making.
His professional philosophy is grounded in the belief that strong relationships and thoughtful leadership contribute to stronger organizations, better decisions, and more resilient communities.
Articles, Publications & Public Commentary
IDEAS, INSIGHTS & PERSPECTIVES
Contributing to the Conversations That
Shape Our Communities
Throughout his professional career, Mike has contributed written perspectives and commentary on issues related to planning, development, public policy, and community growth.
His articles and opinion pieces reflect his experience working at the intersection of local government, development, regional planning, and civic leadership.
This collection brings together selected publications and professional commentary, providing additional insight into the issues, challenges, and opportunities that have informed his work.
Professional Credentials & Affiliations
Credentials, Leadership & Institutional Connections
Connect With Michael
LET'S START A CONVERSATION
Building Relationships. Advancing Ideas. Creating Opportunities.
Meaningful projects and lasting partnerships begin with informed conversations. Whether you're exploring a development opportunity, seeking professional collaboration, or interested in connecting around regional policy, business development, or community initiatives, Mike welcomes the opportunity to discuss shared interests and objectives.
Michael "Mike" Grace, AICP, MRCP
Founder, Metro Development Consulting
Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas
Email: michael.grace@outlook.com
Phone: 972-767-9335
