Although the particulars of the bond program are still in the works, Budget Director Karen Rhodes-Whitley said the projected amount of the package is $257 million.
The bond package is expected to be on the ballot of the May 6 city election.
Park projects that would be funded under the referendum include:
- $5 million toward park improvements
- $18 million for land acquisition in the western and southern portions of Plano for new parks and trails
- $12 million for Carpenter Park renovations
- $8 million for the addition of six artificial turf fields—four at Carpenter Park and two at Russell Creek Park; funding also includes fencing and bleacher shade structures
- $2.5 million for athletic field improvements
- $3.5 million to be used for expansions at Memorial Park
- $8 million for the creation of a pavilion, playground and event area on the eastern edge of Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve off Los Rios Boulevard across from Fire Station No. 11; improvements include the completion of the park’s trail system to accommodate a 5K race within the park
- $4 million for the construction of a bike park (no location determined yet)
Plano’s proposed bond referendum would also include:
- $3.5 million to renovate and maintain the Collinwood House, located within the new Windhaven Meadows Park
- $15 million for the design and construction of a training facility for Plano Fire-Rescue at the northwest corner of McDermott and Robinson roads
- $12 million for the design and construction of a new police substation at the southwest corner of McDermott and Robinson roads
- $15 million for expansions at Davis, Harrington and Haggard libraries
City Council will continue discussions for the proposed projects at its Dec. 20 regular meeting. Public hearings are scheduled for Jan. 9 and 23.
