Willow Bend mall owner seeks new zoning change, offering few details

The developer behind an ambitious expansion project at The Shops at Willow Bend is playing things close to the vest as it seeks approval for even more changes to the Plano shopping center.

The Plano Planning and Zoning Commission on Dec. 2 initiated a zoning case that would designate the mall property as a planned development. This change would potentially allow for additional uses and modified development standards, according to a city staff memo.

Attorney Bill Dahlstrom, who represents Chicago-based Starwood Retail Partners in the zoning case, told Community Impact Newspaper the new zoning case is for a yet-to-be announced project that he said is not part of the $125 million redevelopment effort underway on the property.

Dahlstrom declined to say more about the plans for the mall, and a spokesperson for Starwood did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Dec. 2.

Before initiating this process, Starwood sought approval from three property owners in the area being rezoned. Macy’s and Dillard’s signed onto the plan, while Neiman Marcus withheld its approval, according to city documents.

Plano DIrector of Planning Christina Day said the zoning case could proceed without the approval of all property owners. More information on the request is expected to be made public before the city holds a public hearing on the zoning case.

Starwood in 2015 announced plans for the project that are already underway at the property, featuring a new restaurant district, entertainment and fitness facilities, and an office building.