McKinney's Planning and Zoning Commission approved three residential projects during an April 23 meeting. These projects include single-family homes on the Dowell House property, a townhome community that will be located in downtown McKinney and an apartment complex proposed to be on Rockhill Road.
Dowell House property This project includes the development of six single-family homes on the property where the existing Dowell House is located. The new homes would surround the Dowell House, according to site plans. The Dowell House, built in 1870s, is located at 1104 S. Tennessee St., McKinney. The house was a bed and breakfast and was also used in the 1974 movie “Benji. According to the applicant’s original presentation in November, the existing lot would have been separated into nine lots, allowing the applicant to build eight additional single-family homes surrounding the Dowell House. But, in December, the request was denied by McKinney’s Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council. Commissioners approved a new plan April 23 that would instead allow seven total lots, including the Dowell House and six single-family homes, each on roughly 6,000-square-foot lots surrounding the Dowell House. This revised plan complies with the current zoning for the property. The applicant plans to preserve the Dowell House, according to the letter of intent.
Lamar Street Lofts A proposed townhome community in downtown McKinney was also approved by commissioners. This project includes the development of 20 three-story townhomes at the northeast corner of Lamar Street and Chestnut Street. The townhomes will be various colors and will each have two bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a two-car garage and a downstairs office area. The developer hopes to break ground on the project in the near future, according to the letter of intent.
Apartments on Rockhill Road  This project includes the development of an apartment complex at the southeast corner of Rockhill Road and Wilson Creek Parkway. Commissioners approved the site plan as is, with an exception that a maximum of 355 units be built on the property. During a public hearing on this item, at least three residents spoke against the project. This project will go to City Council with a favorable recommendation from commissioners. Council will consider a final decision during a meeting May 21.