Universal Kids Resort news, 121 North corridor development: 6 trending Dallas-Fort Worth stories

Allen and McKinney officials launch a new initiative for economic development around SH 121, while Universal Kids Resort announces a July 1 opening date.

Check out six trending stories from Community Impact’s Dallas-Fort Worth coverage areas.

1. ‘More than a highway’: Allen, McKinney officials launch 121 North corridor initiative

The Allen and McKinney Economic Development Corps launched a branding initiative called 121 North in May, posing the area as a focal point for economic growth in both cities. The initiative’s goal is to highlight growth and opportunity along the corridor. Among the advantages listed with the initiative’s interactive online map and project highlights are mixed-use development The Farm and concert venue Sunset Amphitheater.

Get the full story from Reporters Mary Katherine Shapiro and Colby Farr and Editor Shelbie Hamilton

2. Frisco removes public input from council agendas indefinitely

Frisco City Council will no longer allow general public comments unless it relates to an agenda item. The removal of the citizen input section of Frisco’s agenda was announced during a June 2 City Council meeting. The public can speak during the council meetings in regards to a specific agenda item but the general public comment portion will no longer be listed on the agenda indefinitely, Mayor Jeff Cheney said.

Find out more from Editor Samantha Douty

3. Denton planning and zoning denies permit for major automotive work

The Denton Planning and Zoning Commission denied a specific use permit to allow for major automotive repair work to be done at a 2-acre property near the Central Village Estates neighborhood at a May 27 meeting due to concerns over noise and resident quality of life. Several neighborhood residents spoke in opposition to the permit out of concern over noise, potential negative impact on property values and environmental pollution.

Continue reading from Reporter Adam Doe

4. Early voting starts June 1 for Frisco's mayoral runoff election

Early voting starts June 1 for the race for Frisco mayor. Frisco residents will elect a new mayor in a runoff election. Early voting runs June 1-9, and election day is June 13. Rod Vilhauer and Mark Hill topped a four-man race for mayor in May and now face off in the runoff.

Get the details from Editor Samantha Douty

5. In case you missed it: 5 new restaurants in Prosper, Celina

Check out five recently-opened restaurants in Prosper and Celina. New additions include Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, which features a variety of southern food options, such as all-day breakfast, country fried steak, meatloaf and chicken n’ dumplings, as well as Koishi Ramen and Sushi Bar.

See the full list from Reporter Jenna Stephenson

6. Universal Kids Resort sets July 1 opening date

Universal Kids Resort will open in Frisco on July 1. The theme park is a first-of-its-kind that is designed for kids. Guests can start planning their vacations with ticket sales and hotel bookings now available, according to a May 28 news release.

See what the buzz is about from Editor Samantha Douty