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Century-old Dallas bridge to bear Pettis Norman’s name
The Dallas City Council unanimously approved a ceremonial name honoring the former Cowboys player, civil rights advocate and community leader. The tribute applies to the Houston Street Bridge between Young Street and Zang Boulevard, linking downtown Dallas with Oak Cliff.
A century-old bridge connecting downtown Dallas and Oak Cliff will be ceremonially named for Pettis Norman, the former Dallas Cowboys player and civil rights advocate whose work extended well beyond football.
The Dallas City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to honor Norman by giving his name to the Houston Street Bridge along the stretch between Young Street and Zang Boulevard. Supporters, including NFL Hall of Famer Joe Greene, attended the meeting at City Hall.
Greene, who played against Norman in two Super Bowls in the 1970s, said Norman’s impact reached beyond the field. “His lifelong process was that – building bridges,” Greene said, describing Norman’s efforts to help people find a path forward.
Norman’s advocacy began during his time with the Cowboys. He was credited with helping persuade coach Tom Landry to stop assigning players to rooms according to race. After his football career, Norman became a Dallas business and community leader, advocating for improvements in Dallas ISD and working to strengthen the community.
Norman died in 2025. His wife, Ivette Norman, began pursuing a lasting tribute earlier this year, saying the bridge’s name could prompt future generations to learn about his contributions to Dallas.
Former Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings also praised Norman’s ability to bring people together. Sports broadcaster Brad Sham said the honor would recognize both Norman and the city. Ivette Norman said community members rallied around her husband because he showed care and love for the community.