ICYMI: 5 recent stories out of Plano

New retail development could be coming to a former Kroger location in north Plano. A preliminary site plan calls for improvements to the former Kroger building at 9700 Coit Road for reuse as a fitness center, according to city documents. The plan also includes two new retail buildings on the 9.7-acre lot at the southeast corner of Coit Road and SH 121. The Kroger closed Jan. 23, 2025, and was replaced by the Kroger Marketplace store across the street at 9617 Coit Road.

Plano launches two “Via” programs for demand-response transportation service

Plano residents will now have access to the city’s latest transportation service, Via. Via will provide an initial six-month transportation service to operate within city limits and up to a 1.5-mile buffer past city boundaries according to city documents. One Via program will be for residents 65 and older, while the second program will have fixed routes in key districts within Legacy West.

Parker Road water tower undergoes $7.7M rehabilitation to remove chemicals, extend lifespan

Plano officials are spending $7.7 million to upgrade a water tower near Parker Road and Premier Drive, according to city documents. Crews are replacing the tower’s protective coating with a new long-lasting formula made without harmful molecules known as PFAS chemicals, said Drew Zaeske, Plano public works community investment program manager.

Plano officials to consider property tax increase based on 5-year financial forecast

As budget season begins, Plano officials are considering the city’s long-term financial health in their assessment of possible property tax rate increases. On top of expected inflation, new expenses related to staffing and operating a number of facilities being built in the next five years will require increased spending from the city’s general fund.