Design is nearly complete for the dog park, according to a city document. Construction is expected to start in early 2026.
The overview
Tomes, who died in 2024, was a decorated military veteran, business leader, community leader and philanthropist, according to the city document. He opened the Bob Tomes Ford dealership on US 75 in McKinney in 1983.
He was recognized with multiple accolades during his life including Citizen of the Year by the McKinney Chamber of Commerce in 1991 and the Good Samaritan award by the Samaritan Inn in 2023.
Council member Geré Feltus said Tomes was an “integral part of McKinney’s history.” He and his wife have done “incredible work” in the community, she said.
Council member Patrick Cloutier said he hasn’t seen a park naming request more deserving during his time on council. He said he knows Tomes would “get a big kick out of it.”
“[Tomes] was a unique character and certainly gave his heart and soul to McKinney,” Mayor Bill Cox said. “I wholeheartedly agree with what’s being proposed here.”
About the project
The dog park is part of a renovation initiative announced by McKinney’s Parks and Recreation department in 2022. Project plans for the dog park to include three separate yards and shade structures.
McKinney council members approved zoning for the dog park in March. In addition to the dog park, officials are planning for a play zone that features sand volleyball courts and horseshoe pits, according to the city document.
Towne Lake Park is located at 1405 Wilson Creek Parkway and totals nearly 230 acres, according to McKinney’s website. For more information about the park, visit http://parks.mckinneytexas.org/park/towne-lake-park.
