In a nutshell
The MCDC’s board of directors awarded the funds during an Aug. 28 meeting, according to a news release. Projects are listed below:
- $233,137 to The Harbor at Adriatica Master Condominium Association for replacement of fire suppression systems at Adriatica Village’s public parking locations
- $80,000 to McKinney Main Street for fabrication and installation of a 50-foot neon monument sign at US 75 and Virginia Parkway promoting McKinney’s Historic District
- $8 million to the McKinney Parks and Recreation department for parks accessibility improvements, trail plan amendments and improvements at three parks
- $305,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Collin County for repair and renovation of three affordable housing properties
- $2 million to Entertainment Properties 360 for enhancements to a publicly accessible park in the West Grove retail development
“These projects align directly with MCDC strategic priorities and our mission to work as a partner to fund community, cultural and economic development projects in McKinney,” MCDC board Chair Angela Richardson-Woods said in a statement. “Our vision to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds is evident in these awarded grants.”
Zooming in
A majority of the $8 million awarded to the city’s parks department will fund improvements at Al Ruschhaupt Soccer Complex, Old Settler’s Park and Erwin Park.
- Al Ruschhaupt Soccer Complex connector road: $2 million
- Old Settler’s Park improvements: $2.8 million
- Erwin Park improvements: $3 million
- Trail plan amendment and wayfinding: $100,000
- Parks accessibility: $100,000
Officials anticipate the project will cost $5.3 million in total and is expected to break ground in early 2026.
Old Settler’s Park improvements include plans for a large pavilion with restrooms, pickleball courts, additional parking and more, according to the presentation. Officials anticipate the project will cost $13.3 million in total, with construction expected to start in early 2026.
Erwin Park improvements are expected to cost $13 million in total. Plans include adding water and electrical service to all camp sites, new restrooms, shower facilities and pavilions. Plans also include a new overlook tower and a widened park entry.
Construction is expected to start in early 2026, according to the city’s website. Campsites and pavilions will be closed during construction, which will last about a year.
Also of note
Board members also approved $2 million for enhancing the West Grove development’s 1-acre community park. The park was completed in May, and additional funding will be used for playscapes, an event stage, public restrooms and more, according to a presentation.
The West Grove project comes from Dallas-based De La Vega Development and has been under construction since the first quarter of 2023 when infrastructure work began. The project’s first and second phases are already open to the public.
Artemio De La Vega, CEO of De La Vega Development, said the new elements at the park will help activate it as a “people place.”
“Our goal is to create as much of a draw as possible,” De La Vega said.
Board member David Kelly said he was in support of the grant request during the Aug. 28 meeting. West Grove is a huge development, and the park enhancements will draw more people, he said.
“I think you’ve done a great job with this park,” Kelly said. “I think it is genuinely adding to a huge asset that you’ve created in the west side of town.”
