Some Rail District business owners could be reimbursed for improvements through a new Frisco Economic Development Corporation pilot program.

The breakdown

The EDC’s board of directors signed off on a three-year pilot program during an April 17 meeting. It is designed to incentivize business and property owners to make improvements alongside the ongoing Rail District redevelopment, according to a news release.

​​“The Frisco EDC board is proud to launch an initiative that supports local businesses and advances the city’s priority of revitalizing downtown Frisco,” said Jason Dudley, chair of the Frisco EDC board of directors, in the release.

Eligible improvements include both interior and exterior changes, such as:
  • Upgrading sprinkler systems
  • Upgrading electrical systems
  • Replacing roofing, flooring or HVAC systems
  • Making facade improvements to awnings, canopies or signage
Only Type A qualified businesses, which is defined as commercial businesses in which the majority of its products or services are marketed beyond Frisco to outside markets, are eligible for the program.


The Frisco EDC board will evaluate the projects during a preapproval process, according to the release. Approved applicants may be reimbursed up to 50% for approved development expenses after the improvements are finished.

“Our goal is to help attract a daytime and nighttime economy to the Rail District to support more commerce in the area,” Dudley said.

Zooming out

The pilot program focuses on businesses inside the Rail District, which the release defines as a portion of downtown Frisco generally located between four streets:
  • First Street
  • Eubanks Street
  • Maple Street
  • Dogwood Street

“This FEDC program directly supports our City Council’s goal to revitalize downtown Frisco through beautification and initiatives supporting our downtown business owners,” Mayor Jeff Cheney said in the release.


Next steps

Interested Rail District business and property owners can find more information and program applications on the EDC’s website.

Editor's note: This article has been updated to clarify that only the Rail District's Type A businesses are eligible for the program.