With streets and lights installed, a shipping container community called The Cotton Groves, located at the corner of Bumpas and Fitzhugh streets in McKinney, is gearing up to begin work on its first homes.

Once complete, the 2.75-acre neighborhood will offer 35 units for qualifying low- to moderate-income families to purchase. The Cotton Groves project is backed by Habitat for Humanity of Collin County and aims to offer a way for people to become homeowners and build equity, CEO Celeste Cox said.

Once the project receives all the sign-offs it needs, Cox said the 35 townhomes will be built in 18 months with the first few of the homes beginning construction in July or August.

The townhomes will feature three- and four-bedroom floor plans, each with a covered carport and a large patio or deck.

Habitat for Humanity of Collin County is still raising money for the neighborhood’s playground with $100,000 left to raise, Cox said. Applications will also open Aug. 1 for families who are interested in living in the neighborhood, she said. So far, six families have been approved, leaving 29 available homes.


To find out more information about the project and to donate or volunteer, visit www.thecottongroves.com.