McKinney | July 2025

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McKinney Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4 JULY 25AUG. 25, 2025

2025 Home Edition

Building McKinney’s next stage Ocials break ground on $300M Sunset Amphitheater project

INSIDE

The Venu Sunset Amphitheater in McKinney is expected to open in 2026 with 20,000 seats. (Rendering courtesy Venu)

MARKETPLACE DR.

MEDICAL CENTER DR.

Also in this issue

Education Page 15 McKinney ISD teachers, sta to get pay increases in the 2025-26 school year—see the details

Real Estate Page 31 Learn how McKinney resident Roy Ponder works to inform, protect homeowners with social media weather forecasts

399

GATEWAY BLVD.

Air Travel Has A New North Texas ZIP Code McKinney National Airport Coming 2026

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Pet Heat Safety

Supporting local businesses helps generate sales tax that is reinvested in the community.

DON’T

• Provide ample shade and water • Limit outdoor exercise • Know the signs of overheating *Failure to follow the ordinance may result in a citation or pet impoundment.

• Leave pets in your vehicle * • Walk on hot pavement

McKINNEY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

McKinneyTexas.org/Pets

mckinneycdc.org

Lower 5 Plaza Connecting People and Spaces

find your FUN

At this meeting, you’ll have the chance to: • Share what amenities you’d like to see (playgrounds, markets, seating, etc.) • Oer ideas on how the space should be used (events, art, wellness, and more) • Ask questions and speak directly with city sta and project planners PUBLIC MEETING Wednesday, July 30 • 6 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers • 401 E. Virginia St. Let's plan the Lower 5 Plaza , a new community space below S.H. 5, together. It will create space for connection, creativity, and gathering.

See our guides online at McKinneyParks.org/ParksGuides

Artist conceptual rendering only. Final project may di er.

McKinneyTexas.org/Lower5

Workwith our Registered Dietitian! NOURISH YOUR GOALS. FUEL YOUR RESULTS.

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact 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.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jacquelyn Burrer

Dustin Butler Karen Chaney Colby Farr Hannah Johnson Heather McCullough Patricia Ortiz Mary Katherine Shapiro Cody Thorn Jacob Vaughn Graphic Designers Nicolas Delgadillo José Jiménez Chelsea Peters Armando Servin Quality Desk Editor Deekota Diaz Managing Editor Miranda Jaimes Senior Product Manager Breanna Flores DFW Market President John Alper

Miranda Talley General Manager mtalley@ communityimpact.com

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MCKINNEY EDITION

Impacts East McKinney

195

B L O OMDALERD.

5 Mountain Mike’s Pizza The pizza chain serves a variety of classic and specialty pizzas as well as wings, sides, salads and sandwiches. • Opened July 14

WILMETH RD.

13 16

380

• 4590 W. University Dr., McKinney • www.mountainmikespizza.com

380

U NI V E R S I T Y D R .

McKinney

Coming soon

VIRGINIA PKWY. JOHNSON ST.

6 Costco The wholesale store will offer its members grocery and pharmacy products. • Opening August 2025 • Southeast corner of SH 121 and Stacy Road, Allen • www.costco.com 7 Ford Construction The home renovation business is opening a new office. • Opening Aug. 14 • 207 E. Virginia St., Ste. 207, McKinney • www.builtbyford.com 8 Office building A four-story, 12,000 square-foot office building is near completion, and some leasable space remains.

VIRGINIA ST.

E. VIRGINIA ST.

LOUISIANA ST.

MILLWOOD RD.

DAVIS ST.

STONEBRIDGE DR.

MCDONALD ST.

INDUSTRIAL BLVD.

MCKINNEY RANCH PKWY.

MEDICAL CENTER DR.

SRT TOLL

STACY RD.

RIDGEVIEW DR.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

• Project slated for completion Aug. 31 • 851 N. Central Expressway, McKinney • www.searchcommercial.com

STACY R

SRT TOLL

3 The Palm Tree The boutique offers a variety of women’s clothing including dresses, blouses and active wear, as well as jewelry and accessories. • Opened in April • 206 E. Louisiana St., Ste. A, McKinney • www.thepalmtreeboutique.com 4 Verity Behavioral Solutions The business offers Applied Behavior Analysis therapy services and individualized treatment plans for children. • Opened June 30 • 3551 Eldorado Parkway, Ste. 100, McKinney • www.verityaba.com

Now open

Relocations

121

1 Blackbird Music Academy Services offered include private lessons, small and large group classes, and online lessons, and instruments taught include guitar, piano and more. • Opened in May • 213 E. Louisiana St., McKinney • www.myblackbirdmusicacademy.com 2 Cavender’s The retail store sells western wear and boots for men, women and children. • Opened June 27 • 2097 N. Central Expressway, McKinney • www.cavenders.com

9 Expressive Aromas The custom perfume studio relocated from a space inside the McKinney Flour Mill to downtown. • Relocated in July

• 216 N. Kentucky St., McKinney • www.expressivearomas.com

Expansions

10 Church of God, a Worldwide Association A new education center being constructed at the church

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448 N Custer Rd, McKinney, TX 75071

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

will feature an auditorium and seating for 500 people. • Expanding in summer 2026 • 3701 Medical Center Drive, McKinney • www.cogwa.org

• 2414 W. University Drive, McKinney • www.precisioninvestments.com

Expansions

Closings

In the news

14 Homeology The decor showroom is closing but the business will continue offering interior design services. • Closing July 31

11 Chestnut Elevated Water Storage Tank A $4.5 million rehabilitation project, including painting and lighting, for the decommissioned water tower will begin this summer. • Northeast corner of McDonald Street and Davis Street, McKinney • www.mckinneytexas.org 12 Medical City McKinney Hospital officials announced July 1 that Dr. Bret Burton will serve as chief medical officer and Kevin Inderhees will serve as chief nursing officer. • 4500 Medical Center Drive, McKinney • www.medicalcityhealthcare.com 13 Sunrise Center The retail center will be renovated and rebranded as 380 Marketplace. • Remodel slated for completion mid-October

• 101 W. Louisiana St., McKinney • www.homeologyinteriors.com

15 Kroger Staff at the grocery store said the location is expected to close by the end of the summer. • Closing TBD • 1707 W. University Drive, McKinney • www.kroger.com 16 Love UR Bed The mattress store is offering various discounts prior to its closure. • Closing Aug. 15 • 2414 W. University Drive, Ste. 115A, McKinney • www.loveurbedmattresses.com

17 Encore Wire Representatives of Encore Wire celebrated the groundbreaking of an over 650,000-square-foot expansion project at a June 18 event. The new state-of-the-art facility will enable the production of medium voltage cables and add 120 new jobs. • Expanding in 2027 • 1329 Millwood Road, McKinney • www.encorewire.com

B I G G R O W T H small town charm.

VAN ALSTYNE, TX

MCKINNEY EDITION

Impacts West McKinney

• 5975 Ridgeline Drive, McKinney • http://properties.linc.realty/1163436-lease

Coming soon

McKinney

1 Destiny Studio The music studio will offer instruction in voice, piano, guitar, ukulele, drums, early childhood music education and more. • Opening Sept. 1 • 6541 Collin McKinney Parkway, Ste. 100, McKinney • www.destinystudio.net 2 Perspire Sauna Studio The health industry franchise will offer clinical-grade red light therapy which is used “as part of treatments for neuropathy, skin conditions, hair loss, athletic recovery and much more,” the company’s website states. • Opening in September 3 Ridgeline Plaza The new 18,000-square-foot shopping center in southwest McKinney is set to complete construction in July, said Najdi Rafaty of Linc Commercial Realty, the real estate broker for the development. The property currently has one confirmed tenant, Delight Liquors, which is set to open in early October. • Construction to be complete in late July • 3241 S. Custer Road, McKinney • www.perspiresaunastudio.com

4 Shipley Do-Nuts The franchise, which was founded in 1936 in Houston, sells a variety of donuts including glazed, iced, filled and cake. The main menu also features gourmet pastries including beignets, cinnamon rolls, fritters and drinks. • Opening in 2025 • 9401 W. University Drive, Ste. 100, McKinney • www.myshipleydonuts.com 5 Starbucks According to a filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, construction of the stand-

UNIVERSITY DR.

380

LAKE FOREST DR.

VIRGINIA PKWY.

WESTRIDGE BLVD.

RIDGE RD.

STONEBRIDGE DR.

ELDORADO PKWY.

alone coffee shop began in February. • Opening in the first quarter of 2026 • 7530 SH 121, McKinney • www.starbucks.com

COLLIN MCKINNEY PKWY.

RIDGELINE DR.

STACY RD.

WEISKOPF AVE.

6 Tao Rice Roll The restaurant is set to open a location in McKinney, according to store signage at the Plano location. The Taiwanese restaurant’s menu includes rice rolls, pancakes, sticky rice and wonton soup. • Opening TBD • 1550 S. Custer Road, Ste. 600, McKinney • www.taoriceroll.com

ROLATER RD.

MCKINNEY PLACE DR.

SRT TOLL

MAP NOT TO SCALE

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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• 6800 Weiskopf Ave., Ste. 200, McKinney • www.kidconnectiontx.com

Relocations

In the news

7 AT&T An AT&T store located at 8700 W. University Drive is set to relocate to the West Grove development because the store is expected to be displaced due to the selected alignment for the US 380 bypass. • Relocating in late August • 8701 W. University Drive, McKinney • www.att.com/stores/texas/mckinney/158367 8 Balayage Bar & Boutique The business relocated from its downtown shop to a west McKinney salon suite inside Salons by JC, a representative of the business confirmed. The salon offers a variety of services including color services, haircuts, blowouts and styling. • Relocated June 1 • 4051 S. Custer Road, Studio 49, McKinney • www.balayagebarandboutique.com 9 The Kid Connection The business located at 1600 Redbud Blvd. is set to relocate to the Craig Ranch area. The company offers tutoring and social emotional support through faith- based play therapy. • Relocating in August

Worth the trip

Heritage Coffee The coffee shop offers a fusion of traditional Yemeni and Palestinian beverages blended with modern influences. Additional beverages available include lattes, cold brew coffee, lemonade, smoothies and more, according to the company’s website. • Opened May 2

• 7227 Main St., Ste. 600, Frisco • www.heritagecoffeeshop.com

11 Kinstead Apartments The apartment complex is under new ownership following a joint venture between Turner Impact Capital and Kalterra Capital Partners to acquire the property. Built five years ago, the 376-unit property will see 191 units converted into income- restricted affordable housing through a partnership with the McKinney Housing Authority. • Acquisition announced July 8 • 5701 McKinney Place Drive, McKinney • www.kinsteadmckinney.com

Closings

10 Round Table Pizza The restaurant served specialty pizzas named for characters in Arthurian legends such as King Arthur’s Supreme pizza, as well as breadsticks, chicken wings and salad. • Closed June 12 • 7951 Collin McKinney Parkway, Ste. 1600, McKinney • www.roundtablepizza.com

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MCKINNEY EDITION

Government

BY COLBY FARR

McKinney staff will apply for a grant from Collin County that would help fund an extension of Rowlett Creek Trail if awarded. McKinney City Council members greenlit applying to Collin County Parks and Open Spaces Project Funding Assistance Program during a June 17 meeting. Applications were due July 1 and an award announcement is expected in October. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department is requesting up to $300,000 for the project, according to a city document. Two new trail sections are planned at the north and south ends of Rowlett Creek Park which will connect it to the city’s overall trail system. McKinney to seek county grant for trail extension

More details

Both trail sections are now possible due to land acquisitions through parkland dedication from adjacent developments and will be located on city park properties, according to the document. The trails will be 12-feet wide and constructed with concrete. The project scope also includes a pedestrian bridge, site furnishings and renovations to Rowlett Creek Park’s playground and pavilion. The trail extension project is listed as a catalyst project in the department’s 2023 Trails Master Plan. The north trail extension is expected to run three quarters of a mile further north and the south trail extension will run about 350 feet to link with existing trails along Settlement Way, according to the plan.

S. STONEBRIDGE DR.

PROPOSED NORTHERN EXTENSION

SILVERADO TRL.

ROWLETT CREEK TRAIL

STACY RD.

PROPOSED SOUTHERN EXTENSION

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

SOURCE: CITY OF MCKINNEY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Government

BY HANNAH JOHNSON

Collin County jail ocials work to reduce repeat inmates

The majority of inmates at Collin County Detention Center have served time in jail before and center ocials are working to change this. Collin County Detention Facility is oering in-jail programs and classes to inmates in the hopes of reducing recidivism, where a person reoends and commits a crime after being released, Inmate Program Coordinator Amy Larson said during an open house for the programs. About 94% of inmates in Collin County’s jail have served time previously, she said. The education programs not only improve pub- lic safety, but the jail environment, Larson said. “This is not being soft on crime,” said Johnny Jaquess, Collin County Detention Facility assistant chief deputy. “It’s a strategic way to have better outcomes and make your jail safer … for the sta and for the inmates.” Zooming in Collin College has funded various life skills education courses for more than 100 inmates with the help of an Adult Education and Literacy grant provided by the Texas Workforce Commission, according to a June news release. The in-jail classes are taught by Collin College professors and are part of the Sheri’s Convicted Oender Re-Entry Eort. The courses are designed for younger or rst-time oenders and focus on personal growth, academic readiness and re-entry preparation, Collin College ocials said. “We don’t just guard inmates here, we lead and manage them and that’s the dierence,” Jaquess said. “That’s what separates Collin County from any jail in the United States.” The rate of individuals re-oending and

Texas recidivism rates, 20092019 The Texas Department of Criminal Justice releases its re-entry and reintegration services report every two years. Recidivism rates are calculated based on the number of individuals who return to jail within three years of release.

Texas

30%

22.3%

21.4%

21% 21%

20.8%

25%

22.3%

21.3%

20.3%

14.7%

16.3%

20%

15%

-34.08% percent change

10%

SOURCES: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE, LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

returning to prison within three years of release is 14.7% in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s biennial report. Studies have shown that educational programs can reduce recidivism by 43%, Larson said. The Washington State Institute for Public Policy found that correctional education returns $5 for every $1 invested. This comes from reduced costs seen in fewer arrests, fewer court cases and lower costs for housing inmates, she said. Since April, Collin College has been oering practice GED exams to inmates with 60 male and female participants, a Collin College representative said. The college has begun a series of structured classes, with dierent courses such as life skills. “These programs help people re-enter society successfully,” Larson said. “Investing in education behind bars is not just the right thing to do, it’s a scally responsible strategy that improves public safety and strengthens communities.”

The Collin County Detention Facility has capacity for over 1,200 inmates, county documents state.

195

BLOOMDALE RD.

4300 Community Ave., McKinney www.collincountytx.gov

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY ADAM DOE & COLBY FARR

Citizen survey shows high scores for safety, economy A recent citizen survey shows high satisfaction with McKinney’s public safety services and quality of life, according to a presentation at a June 17 McKinney City Council meeting. The gist The survey, conducted by the National Research Quality rankings for community elements Safety 87% Health and wellness 77%

1 McKinney National Airport awarded $14.8M grant The Texas Department of Transportation grant, included in the two-year state budget, can be used for airport infrastructure projects that support commercial passenger service. 2 Collin County spends $2.3M for hand-marked ballot system Collin County Commissioners voted unanimously June 23 to fund the implementation of a hand-marked Ballot on Demand system for the next election. 3 Council authorizes $52K contract for housing plan McKinney City Council members authorized a contract with Root Policy Research to examine the city’s affordable housing needs at a June 17 meeting. Government spending news 3 stories we’re following online

Parks and recreation

Center at Polco, included 268 responses from a probability-based sample of 5,000 randomly selected households in McKinney. The results were presented with a 95% confidence interval and a 6% margin for error. When asked to rate the quality of 10 different facets in the McKinney community, respondents rated safety the highest at 87% and mobility was rated the lowest at 34%. Of 123 categories included, McKinney residents rated 13 categories higher than the national benchmark, 107 catego- ries similar to the national benchmark and three categories lower than the benchmark. A full report of the results can be accessed on the city’s website.

75%

Economy

75%

Natural environment

73%

Education, arts and culture

65%

Inclusivity and engagement 60%

Mobility

34%

NOTE: PERCENTAGES SHOW NUMBER OF RESPONDENTS THAT RATED THE QUALITY AS “EXCELLENT” OR “GOOD”

SOURCE: NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTER/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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MCKINNEY EDITION

Government

BY COLBY FARR

Newly elected McKinney Mayor Bill Cox speaks during a June 13 groundbreaking event for the Sunset Amphitheater.

SHELBIE HAMILTONCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Get to know McKinney’s new mayor Bill Cox McKinney Mayor Bill Cox was elected to city council in June and sworn into oce later that month. Cox, who has lived in McKinney his entire life and has served in multiple public service capacities, is stepping into the role as several major projects are underway in McKinney. In addition to serving as mayor, Cox has served on McKinney’s Planning and Zoning Commission and on the Collin College Foundation’s Board of Directors. In an interview with Community Impact , Cox spoke about what he was looking forward to most during his rst term on council. He also spoke about what qualities he brings to the council and challenges facing the city. Answers have been edited for style and clarity or to adhere to guidelines.

unique ability to listen to others’ concerns and listen to what is important to other people. Also, a strength of mine is bringing people together and having people work together, learning others’ ten- dencies. In a position such as the mayor, it’s really important that everyone communicates and keeps those lines of communication open, and that’s some of the qualities that I bring to this oce. What are you looking forward to most during your term on council? What we’re looking forward to most is working with the other elected ocials in McKinney and the region, and continuing the momentum that we have regarding quality of life, quality develop- ments, and the overall momentum that McKinney has. It’s really important that we hit the ground running. It’s really a place where experience is required. Fortunately, we’ve got people on the city council that have experience in making decisions and making business decisions and also a keen awareness of what the homeowners want as well. What do you think are the biggest challenges currently facing the city? The biggest challenges in McKinney will be future development of the extraterritorial jurisdiction, and then also current zoning. There have been changes in state law in this most recent session that allow development that may very well be outside the scope of what the current zoning classication allows. So one of the challenges we’ll have as a city is working with these developers to make sure that the fabric of McKinney is kept intact and we con- tinue to develop in a way that benets the people

of McKinney. Future development is a big challenge that we face. What project or development that’s currently underway in McKinney is the most exciting to you? McKinney has a lot of exciting projects. One of the major developments is the JW Marriott Resort Hotel out in the Craig Ranch area. This will greatly benet McKinney and the region, and also strengthen our position as the host city of the CJ Cup Byron Nelson golf tournament. Then also we’ve got the water park coming online, and devel- opment of that as another venue of entertainment for our citizens. And then also the Venu Sunset Amphitheater, which has already broken ground, is another exciting development. Certainly, the McK- inney National Airport expansion; the development and potential that has to truly be a special amenity of McKinney is another exciting development that we have. What are your goals for your rst term on council? You want people to feel safe. You want them to feel secure. We want them to have options for entertainment, options for living, and also main- taining, most importantly, that quality of life that people in McKinney have come to appreciate and expect from their city leaders.

How has it been so far to work with other members of the McKinney City Council?

Things are going really well. We’re having multi- ple meetings, and learning to work with each other and having everybody come together. We’re still in the early stages of a new council, so we’re still working through everyone’s schedules, but thus far, things are working really well. What qualities and strengths would you say you bring to council? The qualities that I bring to this council is a

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Education

BY SHELBIE HAMILTON

McKinney ISD teachers and staff will see pay increases for the 2025-26 school year following approval of a new compensation plan at a June 23 meeting. The state-mandated and state-funded pay increases come from House Bill 2 that passed the Texas Legislature earlier this year. The bill did not allocate funds to increase the salaries for teachers with less than two years of experience or non-teaching district staff. Board members opted to set aside $9.9 million in local funds that would increase the pay for other teachers and staff members outside the state requirements. Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations Dennis Womack said the district’s increased starting pay for teachers is the highest of surrounding districts, based on announced pay increases for the 2025-26 school year as of June 23. “McKinney ISD is committed to remaining competitive in today’s challenging job market, and that begins with investing in the incredible people who serve our students every day,” Superintendent Shawn Pratt said in a news release. McKinney ISD teachers, staff to get pay increases

Welcome Back students & teachers!

Spend life

learning.

Compensation increases in the 2025-26 school year

Spending Life Wisely means taking small steps towards a life of love and impact. And we’re here to inspire and empower you along the way with information that educates, empowers, and inspires each person to reach their highest purpose and realize their greatest success.

$63,500 starting salary

First-year McKinney ISD teachers

Teachers with 3-4 years of experience Teachers with 5 or more years of experience Paraprofessional, auxiliary and maintenance employees Non-hourly professional staff, including administrators

$2,500 pay increase

$5,000 pay increase

A 4% pay increase based on the midpoint of pay grades A 3% pay increase based on the midpoint of pay grades

SOURCE: MCKINNEY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

McKinney Craig Ranch 6401 S. Custer Rd. McKinney, Texas (972) 569-8301

McKinney Redbud 1700 N. Redbud Blvd. McKinney, Texas (972) 548-3010

Also of note

FirstUnitedBank.com

A breakdown of the general operating budget for FY 2025- 26 includes $258.9 million in estimated revenue and $266.4 million in expenditures, resulting in a $7.5 million projected shortfall. District officials also proposed a 2025-26 property tax rate of $1.0780 per $100 valuation. Guidance from the Texas Education Agency directed school districts to formalize budgets using data from prior to the passage of HB 2, and to anticipate amending the budget to reflect the additional funding from the bill when it is available, Chief Financial Officer Marlene Harbeson said.

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Transportation

BY COLBY FARR & CODY THORN

McKinney schedules repairs for Eldorado, Virginia parkways The concrete panel replacement project on Eldorado and Virginia Parkway in McKin- ney is underway. Construction crews are replacing dam- aged panels on Eldorado Parkway through December. Crews will move on to Virginia Parkway in January 2026. The entire project is expected to take 12-18 months to com- plete, weather permitting, according to the city’s website. Work will be completed in 1-mile seg- ments along the roads. Lane closures are expected but one lane will remain open in each direction at all times, according to the news release. Access to homes and busi- nesses will also be maintained, and trash and recycling services will not be disrupted.

1 Current Spur 399 widening project 2 Future Spur 399 extension

W. UNIVERSITY DR.

380

VIRGINIA PKWY.

380

E L D O R A D O P K W Y .

399

McKinney

Fairview

546

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

TxDOT holds groundbreaking ceremony for Spur 399 The Texas Department of Transportation hosted a groundbreaking ceremony June 17 for a project that will expand a portion of Spur 399 to six lanes. The details

The project is expected to cost $182 million in total and will add lanes between US 75 and Steward Road. TxDOT awarded a construction contract to Webber Construction in December, according to a progress report from TxDOT’s Dallas district office. The project is one portion of a larger plan to extend Spur 399 around McKinney National Airport and connect the road to US 380.

Construction is expected to start this summer and finish in early 2029, officials said. The project will focus on reconstructing and widening Spur 399 from its current four-lane configuration and add a new grade-separated interchange at Spur 399’s intersection with Stewart Road.

Higher tolls in place after NTTA rate increase Starting July 1, the North Texas Tollway Author- ity raised toll rates an average of 1 cent per mile. The rates will increase from 21 cents to 22 cents per mile, while the pay-by-mail rate was increased to be double the TollTag rate.

The breakdown This toll rate increase will help NTTA repay approximately $8.8 billion in toll bonds used to construct toll roads. The rate increase also helps fund future improvements included in the NTTA five-year capital plan. NTTA owns and operates the Dallas North Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike and Sam Rayburn Tollway, according to its website.

“Each year, we serve more than 14 million customers through safe, well-maintained roads, which bring significant economic growth and development to our region.” SCOTT LEVINE, CHAIR OF THE NORTH TEXAS TOLLWAY AUTHORITY’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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MCKINNEY EDITION

Building McKinney’s next stage From the cover

The overview

Sunset Amphitheater site plan The amphitheater will be built on 46 acres and includes space for the venue and parking.

McKinney

McKinney could soon play host to more than 70 music acts a year after development on a 20,000- seat amphitheater is expected to nish in 2026. City and project ocials hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Sunset Amphitheater project in June. The $300 million project will support more than 1,300 jobs and is expected to generate more than $3 billion within the rst decade of its opening, ocials said. Plans for the amphitheater project also include several sound mitigation strategies and nearby trac upgrades. Ocials are planning for a mix of physical and electroacoustic sound mitigation that will limit impact to surrounding properties. The 15-month, two-phase construction period is expected to start on the site this summer. Bob Mudd, vice president of construction and market expansion for Venu, the company behind the project, said that construction will start with land work before moving on to parking. The venue’s site plan includes more than 5,000 parking spaces on site, including multi-level garages. After that, construction will work on the seating bowl and the stage at the same time, Mudd said. “The community will start to see things really move in July,” he said in an email.

Key:

1 Amphitheater stage 2 Indoor multi-season conguration 3 Outdoor multi-season conguration 4 Noise mitigation wall 5 Parking structure Area of development

20,000 seats 295 luxury re-pit suites

350 memberships to the Aikman Club

70+ shows a year

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

SOURCES: CITY OF MCKINNEY, VENUCOMMUNITY IMPACT

The specifics

Diving in deeper

Venu is working with the city and the Texas Department of Transportation to improve adjacent roads for the project. Improvements are expected to cost $8 million and are expected to be complete by the time the amphitheater opens. The plan includes adding turn lanes, sidewalks and lighting improvements to roads near the amphitheater. Venu was required to complete a traffic impact analysis for the proposed amphitheater, city Engineering Director Gary Graham said. “The city expects the traffic to increase in the area surrounding the site when the amphitheater holds an event,” Graham said in an email. “The city has worked very hard with the owner/oper- ator to minimize the impacts to the surrounding residents and businesses.” The traffic study was completed and pre- sented to the city in 2024. The study identifies needed improvements to roads surrounding the amphitheater. “These efforts will lead to lasting infrastructure improvements that [will] benefit the community year-round,” Mudd said.

Venu is utilizing barriers including “wind walls” that flank the stage and electroacoustic mitigation efforts to limit noise emissions. dB(A) measures decibels on a scale that is based on sound intensity and how human ears respond. Example dB(A)

Needed infrastructure projects Intersection work, adding turn lanes Road widening,

sidewalk construction

About 32: Soft whisper from five feet away

60: Allowed sound level at the property line during nighttime hours (9 p.m.-6 a.m.) 57-64: Anticipated sound levels in nearby neighborhoods 70: Allowed sound level at the property line during daytime

MARKETPLACE DR.

S. CENTRAL EXPY. N.

EMERSON WAY

MEDICAL CENTER DR.

About 90: A subway train from 20 feet away

Sunset Amphitheater

100

100: Sunset Amphitheater Front of House mix position*

120

About 125: A jet takeoff from 200 feet away

140

GATEWAY BLVD.

399

NOTE: FRONT-OF-HOUSE MIX POSITION REFERS TO A LOCATION WITHIN THE AMPHITHEATER. SOURCE: VENU/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ADAM DOE & COLBY FARR

What they’re saying

Looking ahead

“I think it’s going to be good for McKinney. I think it’s going to be good for the area.” JOSHUA JONES,

The Sheraton McKinney Hotel, located within walking distance of the Sunset Amphitheater, expects to be the main hotel serving guests and event staff, said Connie Glover, a sales manager for corporate accounts at the Sheraton McKinney. Currently, the hotel’s 187 rooms average 80% occupancy on the weekends. Glover expects the hotel’s weekend and weekday occupancy to increase when the amphitheater opens for business. Glover said the weekday occupancy will likely get a boost from the crew and support staff for the amphitheater events arriving a day ahead to set up and prepare. Joshua Jones, the general manager for radio station KHYI 95.3 The Range and Texas Music Revolution festival founder, said the amphitheater could expose McKinney musicians to a wider audi- ence. Local musicians could get the opportunity to open for a national tour, and perform in front of a non-local audience, Jones said. Guitar Sanctuary owner George Fuller, who

As construction continues, Venu is expected to announce a company later this year that will act as the amphitheater’s operator and manage the event venue. A Chapter 380 agreement with the city originally required an operator to be selected in December 2024 but it was later amended to push the date to fall 2025.

GENERAL MANAGER FOR KHYI AND TEXAS MUSIC REVOLUTION FOUNDER

“[Music] brings people together. This project is that on steroids.” GEORGE FULLER, FORMER MCKINNEY MAYOR AND OWNER OF THE GUITAR SANCTUARY

March 2024 : Sunset Amphitheater project announced April 2024: Incentive package approved by McKinney City Council June 2025: Officials break ground on the project Sept. 15, 2025: Deadline to announce venue operator 2026: Project expected to finish

previously served as mayor, said the project will bring cultural benefits to the community and put McKinney on the map by attracting “world-class entertainers.”

SOURCE: VENU/COMMUNITY IMPACT

2025 - BarnHill Vineyards AD 7-8-25 .pdf 1 7/8/2025 4:49:27 PM

CMY

MCKINNEY EDITION

Events

BY ADAM DOE

Kenny Chesney Tribute Band Barefoot Nation, a Kenny Chesney tribute band, will perform at Barn Hill Vineyards in Anna. Chesney’s country hits include 1999’s “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy” and “When the Sun Goes Down” from 2004. • Aug. 1, 8 p.m. • $23 • 11917 CR 509, Anna • www.barnhillvineyards.com Wine and Barbecue Pairing at Lone Star Wine Cellars Sip a paired vintage wine while enjoying food from Hutchins BBQ. A certified wine expert will guide guests through each wine pairing. • Aug. 5, 7 p.m. • $56.29 Tom Petty Tribute Concert Rock out at Hub 121 with American Petty–A Tom Petty Experience. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ hits include “American Girl” and “Free Fallin’.” • Aug. 8, 8 p.m. • Free (admission) • 7570 SH 121, McKinney • www.hub121.com • 103 E. Virginia St., McKinney • www.lonestarwinecellars.com

McKinney Farmers Market Stop by Chestnut Square Heritage Village every Saturday to browse homegrown produce and handcrafted goods from more than 75 vendors at the McKinney Farmers Market. The market was crowned as the best farmers market in Texas and the southwest by American Farmland Trust, and second in the nation. • Aug. 9, 8 a.m.-noon (every Saturday) • Free (admission) • 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney • www.chestnutsquare.org/farmers-market-mckinney Julio Diaz at the Comedy Arena Brooklyn-native stand-up comedian Julio Diaz will perform at the Comedy Arena. Diaz was featured at the

attract moths to celebrate National Moth Night. • July 26 8-11 p.m. • $11-$15 • 1 Nature Place, McKinney • www.heardmuseum.org/magical-moth-night Music Bingo at Tupps Brewery Grab a music bingo card and a $10 cheeseburger every Tuesday at Tupps Brewery. Players will mark songs and musicians on their cards as the host plays music. • July 29, 7 p.m. (Every Tuesday) • Free • 402 E. Louisiana St., McKinney • www.tuppsbrewery.com/upcoming-events

• Aug. 22, 8 p.m. • $33.75-$137 • 6633 Virginia Parkway, McKinney • www.showclix.com/event/kakiking2025

July

“Barefoot in the Park” See a performance of Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park” by the McKinney Repertory Theatre. The play follows newlyweds Paul and Corie Bratter navigating love and chaos in the days following their honeymoon. • July 25-26, Aug. 1-2, 8-9; show times vary • $21-$26.50 • McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N. Tennessee St., McKinney • www.mckinneyrep.org Danny Jolles at the Comedy Arena Enjoy a show from Los Angeles-based comedian Danny Jolles at the Comedy Arena. Jolles has appeared in the CW’s “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” and Peacock’s “Ted” television shows. Jolles released a stand-up special,

Mark Clearview at the Comedy Arena Magician, mentalist and comedian Mark Clearview will perform at the Comedy Arena. Clearview was a finalist on “Canada’s Got Talent” in 2024, and was featured on “Penn & Teller: Fool Us”. • Aug. 22-23, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. • $25-$35

• 305 E. Virginia St., McKinney • www.thecomedyarena.com

Netflix is a Joke comedy festival. • Aug. 15-16., 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. • $25-$35 • 305 E. Virginia St., McKinney • www.thecomedyarena.com

August

Wicked Sing-Along Party Belt out your favorite “Wicked” songs at the McKinney Performing Arts Center. The party will feature a costume contest, with prizes awarded to the best Glinda and Elphaba, followed by the movie and sing-along. • Aug. 16, 6:30 p.m. • $8-$30 • 111 N Tennessee St., McKinney • https://bit.ly/44gdhuE

Karaoke at The Garage Belt out your favorite songs every Friday night at The Garage. The Garage offers a full bar and food, and hosts a book club and mahjong every week. • Aug. 1, 7 p.m. (Every Friday) • Free

“Danny Jolles: Six Parts,” in 2021. • July 26, 7:30-9 p.m.; 9:30-11 p.m. • $25-$35 • 305 E. Virginia St., McKinney • www.thecomedyarena.com

Kaki King at the Sanctuary Award-winning guitar player and composer Kaki King will perform at the Sanctuary Music and Events center. King composed music for Sean Penn’s 2007 film “Into the Wild,” and Rolling Stone named King one of “The New Guitar Gods” in 2006. The event will feature food and bar service from Zin Zen Wine Bistro.

For details on these and other events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, visit our online community event calendar.

• 100 E. Louisiana St., McKinney • www.thegaragemckinney.com

Magical Moth Night Guests can enjoy a night of nocturnal insects at the Heard Natural Science Museum. Light fixtures will

LOWRY 4100 E US 380 (972) 540-2500

ALLEN 1839 N Central Expy (972) 908-3488

MCKINNEY 2900 W University Dr (214) 341-5487

Business

BY SHELBIE HAMILTON

The main house is open for overnight stays.

The Stephen cottage features some Art Deco design.

Six new cottage suites debuted at Bingham Estate in April.

PHOTOS COURTESY BINGHAM ESTATE

Bingham Estate oers stays at historic property

Once a private residence, the historic Bingham Estate property in East McKinney now welcomes guests for overnight stays. Owner Erika McWilliams opened the main house as a bed and breakfast in May 2023, and six new cottages debuted in April following an expansion on the south side of the property. The cottages are each named for a child of the Bing- ham family that originally owned the property, McWilliams said. The setup The Bingham Estate was constructed from 1882-83 for Captain John Henry Bingham, who fought in the Civil War, and his family, which included his wife and six children, the business’s website states. The estate was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. McWilliams, who has previously restored three other historic homes in downtown, acquired the estate in September 2022. The 1.4-acre estate features the main house with four suites and amenities such as a pool and a pickleball court. Retreats, tea parties and mahjong parties can be hosted at the estate, McWilliams said. Diving in deeper The six new cottages added expanded the property’s total rooms to 10.

“The day that I walked on property, ... I knew I wanted to build cottages, it hit me just like a truck,” McWilliams said, noting that she was inspired by destinations such as Fredericksburg, Texas and Charleston, South Carolina. Each cottage has a unique design aesthetic that was curated to represent one of the six Bingham Children, including the Eliza, Isaac, Margaret, Nathaniel, Sallie Mills and Stephen cottages. McWilliams collaborated with residen- tial designer Mark McReynolds to design the cottages, which are about 600-square-feet each. Work on the cottages began in April 2023, and was completed over a two year period. The personalities of each Bingham child were dreamt up by McWilliams along with the cottage designers, Cassie Werner and Signe Hugghins of Sidewalk Dreamery. The cottages each feature a unique design aesthetic and a conceptual portrait of the Bingham child the cottage is named for. While the design aesthetic varies by cottage, intentional use of color and design elements like wallpaper tie the spaces together. “They feel alive to us,” McWilliams said of the cottages named for the Bingham children. “It’s not a hotel, and even some of the other historic hotels you stay in, it just feels like a room. The Bingham feels alive and you can be immersed in history the moment you walk on.”

The main house features four suites and living spaces.

The master suite in the main house oers a king bed.

COLORADO ST.

800 S. Chestnut St., McKinney www.binghamestate.com

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