What we reported: At least 21 new businesses opened in downtown McKinney in 2018 while other businesses relocated, renovated or expanded, according to a Community Impact Newspaper analysis. One reason for these changes is due to the altering demographics in downtown. Business owners say they are noticing a younger crowd visiting the area. In addition to businesses changing, the footprint of downtown is expanding with the opening of mixed-use developments and parking garages. Some businesses are also shifting east of The Square across Hwy. 5.

The latest: Since November the water tower near downtown McKinney has displayed colorful lights at night. This showcases McKinney and should help propel night life in downtown, said Amy Rosenthal, director of McKinney Main Street and the McKinney Performing Arts Center. To attract customers downtown, various businesses are expanding their hours and participating in a late-night shopping event. The Chestnut Square parking garage is also slated to open Jan. 1, after this paper’s print deadline.