Plano North | September 2023

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Plano North Edition VOLUME 10, ISSUE 1 SEPT. 19OCT. 20, 2023

Collin Creek Mall redevelopment turning corner in construction

The Collin Creek Mall development in Plano is set to start making above-ground progress in construction.

COURTESY XTREME HEIGHTS PRODUCTIONS

called “critical path” items nearing completion, residents can expect to see some vertical progress soon, he said. “All of a sudden people will look and there will be all kinds of stu,” Braster said.

mixed-use development. The plan includes retail, oces, residential, parks, a hotel and more—but since breaking ground in 2021, much of the progress has not been visible to the public. With construction on several less-visible aspects Plano Director of Special Projects Peter Braster

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

The former site of the Collin Creek Mall is starting to take shape. After the mall closed in 2019, developers Cen- turion American worked with the city to create a plan that would turn the space into a $1 billion

CONTINUED ON 14

Also in this issue

Impacts: Corner Wines nishes wine bar expansion (Page 6)

Education: PISDoutpaces state average STAAR scores (Page 10)

Events: Visit the Plano International Festival (Page 17)

Dining: Katy Trail brings backyard beer garden to Plano (Page 18)

Mercedes-Benz of Plano is a J.D. Power 2023 Dealer of Excellence for the Customer Sales Experience.

2023 EQE SUV

THE NEW STANDARD OF ELECTRIC LUXURY

EXPERIENCE THE NEW CLASS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

6455 Dallas Parkway | 972.599.0909 | mbplano.com | A Ewing Automotive Company J.D. Power 2023 Dealer of Excellence Program SM recognition is based on achievement of high scores from automotive manufacturer customer research and completion of an in-dealership best practices verification visit. For more information, visit jdpower.com/US-DOE.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity. About Community Impact

Readers, your newspaper has a

this month.

Market leaders & metro team

What is CI Simple? • Our Design & Editorial leaders have planned a complete overhaul of our content, and we've named the transformation CI Simple. • Each page has been re-envisioned to ensure information is presented in a concise and easily digestible format. Why? • In an age of ever-shortening attention spans and new information accessible at the swipe of a thumb, CI Simple addresses the demands of modern readers. • There’s nothing quite like reading local news straight from your mailbox, and with this change we’re making every word and image count even more. Exciting changes • Revamped front covers with eye-catching imagery alongside a story that truly matters, plus new features like CI Foodie and CI Texas

Reporters Dustin Butler Mark Fadden Colby Farr Destine Gibson Hannah Johnson Cecilia Lenzen Don Munsch Jonathan Perriello Connor Pittman Celie Price Alex Reece Graphic Designers David Bravo Michelle Degard Nicolas Delgadillo Paola Gonzalez

Christine Ortega General Manager cortega@ communityimpact.com

José Jiménez Copy Editors Adrian Gandara Beth Marshall Kasey Salisbury Account Executive Taffy Pavey Managing Editor Miranda Jaimes Senior Art Production Manager Breanna Flores

Michael Crouchley Editor mcrouchley@ communityimpact.com

• More subheads (called Impactisms) and bullet points to easily consume news • Strategic use of design layouts, labels, colors and more to guide your experience

Leanne Libby Publisher llibby@ communityimpact.com

What else? Join CI Patron to receive exclusive Saturday news and swag.

Email newsletters communityimpact.com/newsletter Support us Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron

7460 Warren Parkway, Ste. 180 Frisco, TX 75034 • 214-618-9001 CI Careers communityimpact.com/careers Press releases plnnews@communityimpact.com Advertising plnads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

communityimpact.com

@communityimpactnews

linkedin.com/company/communityimpact

Sweet results! +

Early Intervention

ABA therapy

DESIGNED FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS

It’s simple math, our accredited Applied Behavior Analysis therapy can: • Help children with autism and other special needs reach their full potential. • Shown to have long-term positive effects. • Children can get started as early as two years old!

LEARN MORE!

NOW ENROLLING for fall!

enroll@behaviorexchange.com 972.312.8733

3400 Preston Rd. Suite 215 Plano, TX 75093 972-559-3204 planotx.spenga.com

CALL OR TEXT TO FIND OUT ABOUT OUR GRAND OPENING SPECIALS!

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Impacts

RIDGEVIEW DR.

MCDERMOTT RD.

offers sodas and lemonades spruced up with different flavors like fruit, vanilla and cream. It also serves cookies and edible cookie dough. • Opened Aug. 27

SRT TOLL

HEDGCOXE RD.

121

NORTH PLANO

• 909 W. Parker Road • www.sipcityco.com

PARKWOOD BLVD.

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

LEGACY DR.

Coming soon

5 Black Sheep Coffee Black Sheep Coffee, a U.K.-based coffee shop chain, is set to open a location in Plano, according to signage on the building. Construction to build out the coffee shop is set to begin Sept. 1 and finish Jan. 1 of next year, according to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Black Sheep serves a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies and shakes along with Norwegian waffle snacks and packaged coffee beans. • Opening early 2024 6 Sushi Masa Sushi Masa, a seafood and Japanese fusion restaurant, is set to open a space in Plano, according to building signage. The restaurant will offer sushi, sashimi, soups, salads, hibachi and more. Sushi Masa has six other locations in the United States. • 1501 Preston Road, Ste. 850 • www.leavetheherdbehind.com

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

WINDHAVEN PKWY.

PARKER RD.

DNT TOLL

Y .

PARK BLVD.

15TH ST.

4 T H ST.

P L A N O P K W Y .

Lewisville, and its new Plano location marks its 11th in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. Twin Peaks is known for its wide selection of draft beers served at 29 degrees, hand-crafted cocktails and made-from-scratch food. • Opened Aug. 1 • 3312 N. Central Expressway • www.twinpeaksrestaurant.com 3 Punjabi Junction Punjabi Junction opened its doors in north Plano early August, a company spokesperson said. The restaurant features traditional Indian dishes with “a modern day twist,” according to its website. Formerly known as La Meglio, Punjabi Junction has extended the menu, featuring many of La Meglio’s pizza options while adding several Indian dishes. • Opened Aug. 1 4 Sip City Drink shop Sip City opened in August in Plano, according to the company’s social media. The shop took over the previous Sugar Mountain location, which was in business in Plano for 16 years. Sip City was founded by Dakota Blackburn and his wife, Brooklyn McKnight. The shop • 5588 SH 121, Ste. 300 • www.punjabijct.com PGBT TOLL

Now open

1 Third Coast Bank A grand opening was held in June for a new Third Coast Bank SSB branch in Plano, according to a company news release. The bank offers options for personal checking accounts, saving accounts, money market accounts and more, according to its website. The bank also offers services for businesses, including checking accounts, loans and credit cards. Third Coast Bank was founded in 2008 in Humble. The bank has since expanded to open locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio and more, according to its website. • Opened June 1 • 5000 Legacy Drive • www.tcbssb.com 2 Twin Peaks Twin Peaks held a grand opening at its new Plano location, according to a news release from the company. The new location has over 130 TVs, two bars each with 32 beers on tap, and an expansive covered patio equipped with fans and a standalone fire pit. Twin Peaks CEO Joe Hummel said in the release that “it’s great to be back in Plano.” Twin Peaks was founded in 2005 in

• 6101 W. Park Blvd., Plano • www.sushimasaus.com

Expansions

7 Oak Point Park Plano City Council approved the purchase of a new land parcel for Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve. The land, which is located at 3321 E. Parker Road and was purchased for nearly $1.59 million, will replace park space that will soon be taken up by a new parks maintenance facility at the park. The purchased parcel has an area of 3.06 acres that will be added to Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve, one of two nature preserves in Plano. • Expanding TBD • 5901 Los Rios Blvd. • www.plano.gov/1476/Oak-Point-Park-Nature-Preserve

Exceptional care at an affordable price! Vetsavers. Saving Pets | Saving Money ®

TWO LOCATIONS PRESTON RD JUST SOUTH OF GEORGE BUSH HWY 19009 Preston Rd #100, Dallas 75252 HEBRON & OLD DENTON RD 1025 W Hebron Pkwy #137, Carrollton 75010

SPAY OR NEUTER (6 months or under)

DENTAL CLEANING $199 Price shown does not include charges for take home medication, pre-operative blood work, extraction and oral surgery, dental radiographs, endodontic/ortho- dontic procedures.

DOG VACCINES & EXAM PACKAGE Comprehensive exam, Rabies, DA2PP, Bordetella, Leptospirosis $99

CAT VACCINES & EXAM PACKAGE

$199 (Under 20 lbs) $219 (21-40 lbs) $239 (41-60 lbs) $279 (61-80 lbs)

Comprehensive Exam, Rabies, FVRCP, FELV $99

Prices shown do not include charges for take home medication, pre-operative blood work, retained testicles, in-heat, or pregnant.

vetsaverspethospital.com CALL 972-939-0900

Not valid with any other vaccine or wellness packages. Limit two (2) per visit FREE NEW PATIENT EXAM

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

Now open

Coming soon

8 Zoom Room Zoom Room, a company with dog training centers across the United States, opened in Plano. Cindy Mizell, co-owner of the Plano location, said the business offers training programs, pilates for dogs and classes that teach tricks. Classes will be offered both in group and private settings at the Plano location. Additionally, Mizell said the business also hosts play groups. • Opened Sept. 17 • 3115 W. Parker Road, Ste. 320 • www.zoomroom.com

9 Zzizim Korean Kitchen Zzizim Korean Kitchen is set to open a new location in Plano later this month, owner James Park said. The restaurant serves authentic Korean food including various soups, pork dishes, noodle dishes

and pancakes. Zzizim has one other location in Carrollton. • Opening September • 3420 K Ave. • www.zzizimcarrollton.com

Thank you for your sacrifice and your commitment! These selfless acts of courage should not be forgotten or left unrewarded. With purchase of a new roof, military service members and first responders instantly get an immediate discount. • $500 discount on full roof replacement • And much more! If recent severe winds, hail or heavy rains affected your home, you should have your roof inspected as quickly as possible

Top community relationship bankers

Commercial and mortgage lending solutions

WE REMEMBER ALL WHO SERVED

Wealth management and fiduciary services*

Call us for a free inspection and to learn more about PEAK Honors.

PROUDLY SERVING NORTH TEXAS SINCE 1961.

972-335-7325

CHECK MY GOOD STANDING AT HaagCertifiedInspector.com 2023

2023 - MEMBER

peakroofingconstruction.com Located at 6841 Ash Street in downtown Frisco

* Not FDIC Insured May lose value No bank guarantee

PLANO NORTH EDITION

HEDGCOXE RD.

DNT TOLL

Impacts

LEGACYDR.

Coming soon

SPRING CREEK PKWY.

8 4

4 Enzo’s Deli & Imports Enzo’s Deli & Imports opened its doors in Plano, owner Michael Martin said. Martin grew up in Italy, where he fell in love with food and wine as well as learning to cook from his family as a child. Decades later, he bought Corner Wines & Wine Bar, but he said he wanted to get back into the kitchen, so in 2021 he forged plans to open a deli with imported Italian delicacies next door to the wine shop. The deli will offer traditional meats and cheeses imported from Italy. • Opening September • 4017 Preston Road, Ste . 535 • 972-403-9463 5 Urban Value Corner Store The Dallas-Fort Worth-based convenience store chain has signed the lease to open its third Plano location, CEO Steve McKinley said in an email. Urban Value’s new location is set to be located in the Gateway Apartment community. The store sells a variety of food and beverages, household items, over-the-counter medications, toys and more. The new location will be Urban Value’s ninth in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The store also has two existing Plano locations at Legacy West and in downtown Plano. • Opening TBD

PARKBVLD.

WINDHAVEN PKWY.

PARKERRD.

SOUTH PLANO

SILVERWOOD LN.

15THST.

PARKBLVD.

CUSTER RD.

15THST.

P L A N O P K W Y .

VISTA GLEN DR.

WYNHURST DR.

DNT TOLL

PGBT TOLL

VISTACOURT DR.

online clinics or local physicians registered with the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas. Texas Original is a licensed medical cannabis producer headquartered in Austin. The company delivers throughout the state. It has pickup locations in Addison, Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, Hurst and Lubbock, according to its website. • Opened Aug. 29 3 Dough Bro’s Italian Kitchen and Bar Dough Bro’s opened in south Plano, according to an email from a company representative. The restaurant serves salads, sandwiches, calzones, pizzas, wings and more. Customers can create their own pizza or order from a selection of signature pizzas, according to its website. Dough Bro’s has two other locations in Dallas and Bedford. • Opened June 10 • 1941 Preston Road, Ste. 1004 • www.doughbro.com • 601 W. 15th St., Ste. 102 • www.texasoriginal.com

Now open

1 TBG Martial Arts TBG Martial Arts, a women-owned martial arts studio, is now open in Plano. The studio opened in May at its location just south of West Plano Parkway. TBG Martial Arts offers “Tex-Kwon-Do” classes, which blend the Korean martial art taekwondo with a Texas attitude, and self-defense classes. • Opened May 19 2 Texas Original One of three authorized medical cannabis providers in the state, opened a new pickup location in Plano, according to an Aug. 29 news release. Texas Original is open every Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. offering medical cannabis products to qualified patients. Patients must be registered with Texas’ Compassionate Use Program to pick up a prescription. Medical cannabis can be prescribed to treat spasticity, neuropathy, post-traumatic stress disorder, cancer, epilepsy and more than 100 neurodegenerative disorders. Patients can obtain a prescription for medical cannabis through • 1108 Ohio Drive, Ste. 118 • www.tbgmartialarts.com

• 355 Vista Glen Drive, Ste. 100 • www.urbanvaluestore.com

Expansions

6 Evan’s Park After a hiatus since October last year, construction on the Evans Park renovation is set to begin in September, according to city officials. Parks and Recreation Director Ron Smith said construction on the park renovation is expected to resume in early September and take between four and five months to complete. Smith added that the scope of work at Evans Park will include replacing play equipment, basketball hoops, the pouring of concrete trails, and a new pavilion with picnic tables and benches.

• Expanding September • 1712 Silverwood Lane • www.plano.gov/1522/Evans-Park

7:30 am to 6:00 pm For children from 18 months old to 6 years old We give your child the gift of quality Montessori education REGISTRATION FEES WAIVED for first time families enrolling with Centennial Montessori Academy. Families who enroll and pay in full for their child’s academic school year 2023-2024 (Aug- May) will receive their first month FREE . Multiple Programs Available to Best Suit Your Child

Call Centennial Montessori Academy at 972-752-3262 to schedule a tour and enroll your child. centennialmontessoritx.com • 9720 Coit Road, Suite #111, Plano, Texas 75025

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Expansions

Now open

7 Chally Bridal & Prom The store held a grand opening event in Plano, according to a company spokesperson. Chally Bridal & Prom is located just outside of Dillard’s in the Shops at Willowbend. Chally sells a variety of wedding and prom dresses, and the 40,000-square-foot space also features an event center. It’s the largest wedding salon in Texas, co- owner James Kang said. • Opened Aug. 11 • 6121 W. Park Blvd. • www.challybridalandprom.com

8 Corner Wines & Wine Bar Corner Wines & Wine Bar unveiled its wine bar expansion, owner Michael Martin said. The location has been in business since 2006, and Martin began the expansion in 2022, which will add a full bar and additional seating for about 50 guests.

Martin said he wanted to provide a space where guests can enjoy a full spectrum of wines. The store boasts over 400 different wines. • Expanded September • 4017 Preston Road, Ste. 535 • www.cornerwines.com

CUSTOM CUTTOYOUR SPECS, WRAPPED, LABELED AND FLASH FROZEN FORYOUR FREEZER. NOW IS A GREAT TIME to fill up your freezer with a side or hindquarter of locally raised Angus beef. SIDES 400/450 Lbs. * $5.49 LB. HINDS 200/250 LBS. * $4.79 LB. * HANGING WEIGHT

IS LAUNCHING IN

• FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER • CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • BUSINESS ADVERTISING PROSPER & CELINA

HOURS: Tuesday - Friday: 10-6, Saturday: 9-5

PLANO, TX 972-633-5593

1301 W. PARKER RD., #100

W. Parker Rd.

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Transportation

BY ANNA LOTZ

Texas Central, Amtrak begin talks to advance high-speed rail

Texas Central and Amtrak ocials are exploring a partnership to potentially advance the 240- mile high-speed rail project proposed to connect Houston and Dallas, Amtrak ocials announced in an Aug. 9 news release. The high-speed rail project connecting Dallas to Houston, which was announced in 2014 by Texas Central, was set to be operational several times between 2023-2026, according to prior reporting. However, construction has not yet begun on the route. Two-minute impact Amtrak’s announcement states the two entities are evaluating a partnership to further determine the project’s viability. “We believe many of the country’s biggest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas, like Houston and Dallas, deserve more high-quality high- speed, intercity rail service,” said Andy Byford, Amtrak senior vice president of high-speed rail

development programs, in the release. The project is anticipated to: • Provide travelers a 90-minute route between Houston and Dallas • Complement long-distance service Zooming out Amtrak is developing a team focused on high- speed rail opportunities. It was not immediately clear how the collabora- tion between Texas Central and Amtrak is chang- ing with the August announcement. Texas Central and Amtrak have submitted applications to federal programs for grant funds. In their own words “A high-speed rail line would revolutionize transportation in our region, serve as a catalyst for economic growth, and enhance connectivity among Texas residents and businesses,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said in the release.

Texas Central’s proposed high-speed passenger rail will be modeled after Japanese Shinkansen bullet trains.

COURTESY TEXAS CENTRAL

Stunning new homes for VIBRANT SENIOR LIVING

New construction is underway at Highland Springs,® the premier senior living community in North Dallas. These new buildings will feature a variety of floor plans with elegant finishes, plus all-new amenities like a delicious new dining venue, fitness center, and more.

Call 1-888-506-5182 today to learn more!

North Dallas HighlandSpringsCommunity.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Number of homes sold

July 2022

July 2023

Residential market data

56 43 22 25 45 42

38 44 39 34 49 32

-25%

-34.7%

75023

75074

Only two ZIP codes in Plano saw year-over-year increases in homes sold this July. Three markets saw increased home sales prices, while homes generally sat on the market longer than last year.

+13.64%

75024

+15.79%

75075

-6.67%

75025

-12.82%

75093

SRT TOLL

DNT TOLL

Median home sales price

PGBT TOLL

2022

2023

2022

2023

75023

75074

+8.78%

-8%

$465,000

$404,600

$427,450

$440,000

75023 75075

75024 75093

75025

75074

75024

75075

+8.15%

-3.49%

$730,000

$461,310

$675,000

$478,000

Homes sold in Plano area by price point

75025

75093

+7.7%

-0.86%

$640,250

$693,000

$594,500

$699,000

July 2023

$1 million+

$750,000-$999,999

Average days on market

$500,000-$749,999

153

+14.29%

+82.35%

+75%

+42.9%

+6.25%

+38.46%

$250,000-$499,999

>$249,999

75023

75024

75025

75074

75075

75093

You don’t have to wonder. Ask an expert what your home is worth.

LoneStarHomes.com

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Education

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

Plano ISD STAAR scores surpass state averages in 2023 year’s scores will be an imperfect science. Regard- less of the outcome, it is still important to use this year’s scores simply as one piece of information in a larger landscape about your child’s performance and growth.” By the numbers 0

Plano ISD students surpassed the state average in all subjects, according to State of Texas Assess- ments of Academic Readiness results released Aug. 16. The details The STAAR underwent an overhaul this year “to better align with classroom instruction” based on requirements of House Bill 3261, passed in 2019. The redesigned exams were administered online, barring certain exceptions, and featured more questions that emphasized writing and were not multiple choice. The standards and scales for the exam were also reset, according to a news release from the Texas Education Agency. The changes contributed to a delay in the scores being released. “Students experienced very different STAAR tests than in the past,” PISD Deputy Superinten- dent Lisa Wilson said in a video statement. “Due to the changes, comparing last year’s scores to this

Plano ISD STAAR scores Here is the percentage of Plano ISD students who passed the STAAR in 2023 compared to 2022. Spring 2022 Spring 2023

100% 20% 40% 60% 80%

Reading 3rd grade 4th grade 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade Math 3rd grade 4th grade 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

Students in grades 3-8 are tested in reading and math, while fifth and eighth graders take additional science and social studies exams. Public school students must perform to at least the “approaches grade level” standard to pass the test. Despite changes to the exams, the percentage of PISD students who passed the reading test was comparable to 2022 in all grade levels. The district’s math scores showed growth at all grade levels besides sixth grade, which dropped 1 percentage point. Science and social studies scores remained largely unchanged from 2022, while PISD students still outperformed state averages.

-2 +2

+3 +1

+4 +6

-1

+5 +3

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

She joined CI in 2007 as a receptionist and today serves as one of the company’s General Managers. Meet Denise.

WE ARE HIRING and we think you’d be Amazing

“The opportunities that are given here and the amount of faith that our owners —John and Jennifer—have in every employee, it’s unlike any company.”

Scan to learn more about various career paths at CI and view our current openings.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HANNAH NORTON

State STAAR scores for grades 3-8 show gradual improvement Commissioner Mike Morath said. “This year’s results show the efforts of our educators continue to deliver improved results for students.”

The 2022-23 statewide standardized test scores for third to eighth grade show students have recovered from pandemic lows in reading and language arts, but are still struggling in math, the Texas Education Agency reported. The TEA released results from the spring State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness on Aug. 16. The tests were redesigned in 2023 “to better align with classroom instruction” following the passage of House Bill 3906 in 2019. The details Students in all grades performed better in read- ing and language arts than before the pandemic. According to the TEA, 51% of third to eighth grade students met their grade level in 2023, compared to 52% the year prior. In 2019, 45% of students met expectations in reading and language arts. “Teachers across Texas continue to work with passion and skill to help students learn,” TEA

State STAAR passage rates Below are the 2022-23 state STAAR passage rates compared to the prepandemic baseline. Spring 2019 Spring 2023

“Significant effects of the pandemic still linger” in math, the TEA said in a news release. Students in five of the six grade levels tested improved year over year, while sixth graders performed equiva- lently to 2022. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, 48% of students met expectations in math. This year, 42% of stu- dents met expectations, a three-percentage-point improvement from 2022. Learn more Families can visit www.texasassessment.gov to access their children’s individual STAAR results. The TEA will issue accountability ratings for all Texas public schools and districts Sept. 28, following months of revisions to the accountabil- ity system.

100% 20% 40% 60% 80%

Reading 3rd grade 4th grade 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade Math 3rd grade 4th grade 5th grade 6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

+4 +3 +4

+15

+5 +3

-4

-6 -8 -6

-10

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The world awaits There is no better time than now to prepare for your next well-deserved journey. AAA has you covered with additional travel services to help you travel with confidence.

TRAVEL INSURANCE We know the current environment may cause you to have concerns about needing to cancel your trip. Your AAA Travel Advisor can share travel insurance options with enhanced cancellation benefits through Allianz Global Assistance 1 , so you can have greater peace of mind. PASSPORT PHOTOS & EXPEDITED PASSPORTS AAA members save 30% on passport photos 2 in branch. Enjoy exclusive AAA rates on expedited passport courier services 3 through RushMyPassport TM , plus save time and a trip to the passport office.

TRAVEL VISAS If your desired destination requires a travel visa, AAA’s preferred partner offers a fast, secure and affordable solution. INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMITS Planning to drive while overseas? Get your International Driving Permit (IDP), honored as identification in more than 150 countries, with AAA

Unmatched Academic Results Come tour a campus and see for yourself!

before you travel. LOCAL ACTIVITIES

Don’t forget to book your local activities ahead of time. Let your AAA Travel Advisor be your guide to selecting hand-picked experiences.

When you’re ready, we’ll be here...

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence.

CALL: CLICK: VISIT:

888.467.4957, Press 2 AAA.com/Travel Your Local AAA Branch – Multiple Locations Near You

Legacy (PS–K) (469) 573-0077 6700 Communications Parkway, Plano Independence (PS–G2) (469) 642-2000 10145 Independence Parkway, Plano

1 Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply to all plans. Coverage may vary by plan and state. See your plan for details. Plans generally do not cover losses related to COVID-19, including without limitation due to known, foreseeable, or expected events, epidemics, government prohibitions, warnings, or travel advisories or fear of travel. For more information, contact Allianz Global Assistance at 1-800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com. Underwritten by BCS Insurance Company or Jefferson Insurance Company. Allianz Global Assistance is the licensed producer and administrator. Automobile Club of Southern California or affliates act as producer in HI and KS. Plans include insurance benefi ts and assistance services. CA customers can reach the CA Dept of Insurance through its toll-free Consumer Hotline: 1-800-927-4357 (HELP). 2 One set is $10+ tax for Classic members, and $15+ tax for non-members. Rates for Plus and Premier members vary. 3 Passport courier services are available online only at AAA.com/passport. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA club is a motor club with a principal place of business at 3333 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2023 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Government

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY, CONNOR PITTMAN & DUSTIN BUTLER

PISD approves school marshal program Plano ISD is set to implement a school marshal program intended to “enhance school safety,” according to a news release from the district. The PISD board of trustees unanimously passed the resolution during its Aug. 8 meeting. What’s happening? The new program sets out to provide armed security at 50 school campuses, along with six additional ocers for backll. House Bill 3, which requires districts to sta every campus with security. The district already had school resource ocers stationed at secondary grade level who also did daily rotations at elementary schools.

Plano residents set for utility rate increases Plano residents will see increases to some of their utility and service costs starting Oct. 1. The costs reect higher rates the city is paying for contracts to obtain water or sewer services, along with increased personnel and equipment cost for trash and recycling services based on presentations during to Plano City Council. What you need to know Director of Budget and Research Karen Rhodes-Whitley said the wholesale water rate from the North Texas Municipal Water District was $3.69 per thousand gallons, a 9% increase instead of the original proposed 11%. Wastewater increases from the district total around 10%, she added. To cope with the increased costs of both water and sewer service, the city is proposing two sepa- rate increases: 6% for water customers and 3% for sewer. Rhodes-Whitley said the average residential

Plano continues STR discussions

“I think it’s very important that we recognize that water costs are going up; the growth of the region is demanding

additional water resources; so the trajectory of water rates is going to continue to increase.” MARK ISRAELSON, CITY MANAGER

The city is hoping to reach a conclusion on how to regulate short-term rentals in Feb. 2024, Plano Director of Planning Christina Day said. Day presented an update on Plano’s research into short-term rentals—including data collection and a task force—during the Aug. 28 city council meeting. The details The city is currently in the rst phase of the study focusing on data collection, Day said, and working to verify data collected by a third-party with the Public Safety Commu- nications system. The task Force will reconvene after the open house concludes to review the data col- lected. Findings will be reported in October.

Collin College held a signing ceremony for its new automotive technician program at the school’s technical college in Allen.

MICHAEL CROUCHLEYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Collin College launches automotive program Collin College partnered with Toyota to oer the Toyota Technician Education Network, or TTEN, program. The details The program is meant to serve as a fast track for students looking to serve as technicians in Toyota

or Lexus dealerships by providing training on the latest technology in Toyota vehicles. The TTEN program is available at Collin College’s technical campus in Allen. The program launched this fall semester. Quote of note “This program gives students an opportunity to receive exceptional training in a high-demand eld,” Collin College District President Neil Matkin said. “Students will gain mentoring and internship opportunities to better prepare them in their careers.”

customer with 10,000 gallons of monthly water usage and 5,000 gallons for wastewater would see a $4.48 monthly increase, or about 4.8% from their current bill. Solid waste customers will also see increases depending on the size and amount of their trash or recycling receptacles. Rhodes-Whitley attributed the cost increases to more expensive fuel and equipment, personnel-related expenditures and ination.

PLANO 5930 West Park Blvd (972) 250-0500

ALLEN 1839 N Central Expressway (972) 908-3488

EAST PLANO 3404 N Central Expressway (972) 423-6688

COIT ROAD 1453 Coit Rd (972) 867-2821

Collin Creek Mall redevelopment turning corner in construction From the cover

The backstory

Two-minute impact

Since breaking ground on the redevelopment in 2021, much of the focus has been below what residents would see driving down US 75. The construction has largely focused on the 1,976-space garage and the development’s sewer lines, Romo said. Any vertical progress has hinged on the construction of those two items, along with city approval processes. A lot of work has also been done to level off the building site, offsetting a “big dip” leading to the mall’s first floor, Braster said. “Most of the work that’s been going on is all underground,” Braster added. “There’s been a tremendous amount of work, and unfortunately, most of it isn’t visible. But that’s what it takes to turn a mall and a parking lot into a neighborhood.”

Also in the plans is a large retaining wall on the developments west side. Construction on the east side is waiting for improvements on city- owned culverts to finish, Romo said. “I think between now and the end of the year you’ll see a lot of progress,” Braster said.

A large underground parking garage and infrastructure for the project is “just finishing up,” Braster said, and those two items are expected to be completed before the end of the year. That garage’s completion also makes way for more visible projects, such as the two six-story apartment buildings with retail on the first floor that will be built on top of the parking garage.

Centurion American Vice President Rob Romo said construction on those two buildings are only waiting on approval from the city. He added that they could be completed in the “latter part of 2024.“

1981 July 2019 Sept. 2019

Key

Collin Creek Mall originally opens

Commercial/retail Hotel/office Restaurants Park/open space Multifamily residential Multifamily residential & street level retail Singe family residential (500 total units)

Collin Creek Mall closes

Demolition of the mall begins

Sept. 2021

Collin Creek redevelopment project breaks ground

Residential developers begin construction on the project’s townhomes and single-family homes Underground parking garage and infrastructure construction finishes

June 2023 Late 2023 Late 2024

First phase of the project built out

SOURCE: CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCE: CITY OF PLANO, CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SHE’S MAKING LASTING FRIENDSHIPS

K RUPA D OWNS L AW

now enrolling! frisco (east) • frisco (west) GoddardSchool.com now enrolling! frisco (east) • frisco (west) GoddardSchool.com The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Franchisor, LLC. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, LLC is Cognia accredited. License Frisco (West). © Goddard Franchisor, LLC 2023 now enrolling! frisco (east) • frisco (west) GoddardSchool.com 3336 Main St 214-872-3600 4915 Coit Rd 945-348-8705

C HRISTENE “C HRIS ” K RUPA D OWNS , ATTORNEY WILLS | ESTATE PLANNING GUARDIANSHIP | PROBATE LAW

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Franchisor, LLC. Programs an Goddard Systems, LLC is Cognia accredited. License Frisco (West). © Goddard Franchisor, LLC 2023

214.556.3862

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agree- ment with Goddard Franchisor, LLC. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, LLC is Cognia accredited. License Frisco (West). © Goddard Franchisor, LLC 2023

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY MICHAEL CROUCHLEY

What's next

The action taken

What they're saying

As vertical progress begins on the project, Romo expects construction on the first phase of the development to finish late next year. Braster said he hopes the Collin Creek Mall can serve as an “anchor” for Plano’s US 75 corridor.

A major factor in the support for the Collin Creek Mall project is “neighborhood vitality” and keeping the mall from any further decline that would depreciate home values in the area, Braster said. “We really needed to inhibit any further decline not only right around the mall but really down the whole [US 75] corridor,” Braster said. “We wanted to keep those neighborhoods fantastic and make sure it’s a place that people want to live.”

2,300 multifamily apartment units

Townhomes at Collin Creek started construction.

RENDERING COURTESY CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP

Developers received final approval for the 402 single-family houses and townhomes from Plano’s Planning and Zoning Commission in May. Three different companies—Mattamy Homes, Ashton Woods and Brightland Homes—all have sites that are ready to begin construction on homes along Alma Drive, Braster said. There are also 98 more townhomes planned for the south side of the project. “It’s really exciting to see these street signs going up,” Commissioner Michael Bronsky said.

500 single family homes

“We didn’t want the mall to even start to bring [that area] down. … We were at a crossroad, and we had to pick the path forward.”

308,000 square feet retail space

1.3 million square feet office space

PETER BRASTER, PLANO DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS

SOURCE: CENTURION AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT GROUP/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Unlock The Door To The Workplace You Can Trust

• 200 Artists • Live Music • Food Court • Craft Beer & Wine in the Courtyard • Hands-On Kids Area October 7 & 8 Cottonwood Park • Richardson, TX

FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING DMISSION & Saturday: 10a-7p Sunday: 10a-5p

CottonwoodArtFestival.com

Private Offices | Coworking | Meetings & Events

Plano - Legacy West 7950 Legacy Drive 972.316.4470 plano@serendipitylabs.com

McKinney - Craig Ranch HUB 121, 7540 SH 121 972.992.1358 mckinney@serendipitylabs.com

Featured Artist: Erin Curry

serendipitylabs.com

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Development

BY CONNOR PITTMAN

Former Fry’s Electronics set for redevelopment

and a hotel, according to documents submitted to the city. The lot for the proposed development has been vacant since the Fry’s Electronics closed store in 2021. Sta had concerns about the exterior noise levels on certain parts of the property and the future nonresidential space never developing if oce demand fails to return, according to a council memo. Mayor John Muns favored the proposed development, citing its ability to provide more housing to Plano’s workforce.

A development located at the corner of Plano Parkway and Executive Drive was approved after a couple hearings before the Plano Planning and Zoning Commission and Plano City proposed project by a 5-3 vote with Council Members Anthony Ricciardelli, Shelby Williams and Rick Smith voting against during the Aug. 28 meeting. The developer intends to construct 501 mid- rise multifamily units, 33 attached single-family units, open space, oce space Council, respectively. Council approved the

More paths traveled.

Joint care that helps you get more out of life. For quality joint care, more North Texans choose Texas Health than any other health system. And at Texas Health Plano, we have a 30-year heritage of providing quality joint care. We offer a comprehensive range of programs featuring advanced technology and preventative care so you can get back to doing what you love. At Texas Health Plano, you can rest assured that you'll receive quality, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.

Bay West Development is looking to build a mixed-use development.

RENDERING COURTESY OF BAY WEST DEVELOPMENT

Take our hip and knee health assessment or find a joint care specialist at YourJointHealth.com.

What’s next

help mitigate noise on the property along SH 190. A second phase of the project including the remaining multifamily units and at least 70,000 square feet of non-residential space will begin once a certicate of occupancy for the non-residential space is obtained.

The development’s rst phase of construction will be the rst work on the site. During the rst phase will include townhomes, open space and no more than 260 mid-rise apartments. Additionally, the developer is proposing temporary landscaping berms for the rst phase that will

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY JONATHAN PERRIELLO

seemingly ordinary man who gets himself in trouble for his secret desires. • Oct. 4, 7-9 p.m. • $11.50 • Angelika Film Center & Café, 7205 Bishop Road, Ste. E6, Plano • www.angelikafilmcenter.com/plano Red Tent Farmers Market Shoppers can peruse and purchase locally grown produce and other goods at a Plano’s farmers market located in the parking lot off of Chapel Hill Boulevard and West Plano Parkway. The event is run by Red Tent Markets. Some of the items that will be for sale include local produce, baked goods and more. • Oct. 7, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. • Free (admission) • Chapel Hill Blvd parking lot, 6121 W. Park Blvd., Plano • 972-2025-7115 Art and Wine Walk in Downtown Plano Plano residents can attend a “Hocus Pocus” themed sip and shop this fall in downtown. Art will be displayed along the route. Tour locations include: Bel Air Apartments, Jett Pets and more. • Oct. 19, 5-8 p.m. • Free • Downtown Plano, 1024 E. 15th St., Plano • 214-907-6239

September

Big Fish Shine Performance Art Studio is presenting “Big Fish” at Courtyard Theater. The show is a musical that tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who

lives life to its fullest. • Sept. 24, 2:30 p.m. • $23

• Courtyard Theater, 1509 H Ave., Plano • www.plano.gov/1067/Courtyard-Theater

Karaoke Night at McCall Plaza Plano residents can enjoy Karaoke Night in the heart of Downtown Plano this fall. The event will be held “under

Plano International Festival 2023 Plano is celebrating its 19th annual multicultural festival at Haggard Park. Attendees can partake in multicultural music and dance performances, ethnic food trucks, cultural displays, an art exhibit and more. Kids can explore free science, technology, engineering, art and math activities plus travel the booths with a Festival Passport. • Oct. 14, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. • Free • Haggard Park, 901 E 15th St., Plano • www.visitplano.com/event/plano-international- festival-2023

the stars” at McCall Plaza. • Sept. 29, 7:30-10 p.m. • Free • McCall Plaza, 998 E. 15th St., Plano • 972-941-5600

October

Hitchcocktober: Rear Window The Angelika Film Center & Café is hosting a showing of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window.” The film follows a

Joi� u� fo� �o OCTOB SAT 10a-6p

Joi� u� fo� �om� Famil� Fal� Fu�! OCTOBER 21-22 SAT 10a-6p SUN 10a-5p SUN 10a-5p Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Cos Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft B Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. huffh Joi� u� fo� �om� Famil� Fal� Fu�! OCTOBER 21-22 SAT 10a-6p SUN 10a-5p Joi� u� fo� �om� F OCTOBER SAT 10a-6p SUN 10a-5p Joi� u� fo OCTO SAT 10a- Joi� u� fo� �om� Famil� Fal� Fu�! OCTOBER 21-22 SAT 10a-6p

you need to know about your community in 5 MINUTES

Joi� u� fo� �om� Famil� Fal� Fu�! OCTOBER 21-22 SAT 10a-6p

Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Costume Contests•Petting Zoo Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft Beer•Fall Treats & more! Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. huffhinesharvestfest.com Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Costume Contests•Petting Zoo Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft Beer•Fall Treats & more! Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. huffhinesharvestfest.com Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic F Huffhines Park, 300 N. Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts• Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•C Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Costume Contests•Petting Zoo Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft Beer•Fall Treats & more! Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. huffhinesharvestfest.com Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Costume Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft Beer• Huffhines Park, 300 N. Plano Rd. huffhinesh

Marketplace Vendors•Pumpkin Patch•Kids Crafts•Costume Contests•Petting Zoo Scarecrow Village•Pawtastic Fun•Live Music•Craft Beer•Fall Treats & more! huffhinesharvestfest.com

PLANO NORTH EDITION

Dining

BY JONATHAN PERRIELLO

Katy Trail Ice House Outpost brings backyard beer garden to Plano Tucked away in a small nook along Routh Street in Dallas sits a brick wall tacked up with a wooden sign that reads Katy Trail Ice House and a path leading behind it. Walking down the path reveals a garden of shade trees and dozens of gently misting fans and people enjoying food and drink at the picnic tables beneath them. The restaurant is at its center, complete with indoor seating, a full kitchen and bar menu and servers shuing orders out to customers. For owner Buddy Cramer, this is the closest Texas representation of traditional German beer gardens. Now, the Katy Trail Ice House Outpost in Plano is undergoing a similar expansion with the addi- tion of 6,000 square feet of patio space and almost $1 million worth of planted trees. “In this business if you’re not doing anything to (make progress) then you’re probably moving backwards,” Cramer said. The idea emerged from his desire to meld the hole-in-the-wall patio bars in Central Texas with the beer gardens he visited in Munich, Germany, where people gathered beneath trees with friends and family, Cramer said. “It really derives from a Munich beer garden that we put the Texas air to,” he said. The restaurant serves the full gamut of bar-style food from hot dogs to cheeseburgers to poblano chicken sandwiches and more. After the Plano renovations are complete, Cramer plans to expand into Allen.

Renovations to expand the patio at Katy Trail Ice House Outpost in Plano are underway.

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN PERRIELLO COMMUNITY IMPACT

W. PARK BLVD.

OLD SHEPARD PLACE

4700 W. Park Blvd., Plano. www.katyoutpost.com

Katy Trail Ice House Outpost serves a large variety of beers, including a hefeweizen from Live Oak Brewing Co.

GIVE A LITTLE. HELP A LOT. NORTH TEXAS GIVING DAY IS HERE.

Choose from 3,000+ local nonprofits in need of your support at NorthTexasGivingDay.org

Every gift matters. Give online via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, or Venmo between September 1 and September 21

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24

communityimpact.com