The Dallas Stars moved one step closer Monday to making Plano the future home of the franchise after city leaders unanimously approved several measures tied to a proposed arena and sports and entertainment district at The Shops at Willow Bend.
The Plano City Council voted 8 to 0 to approve a nonbinding letter of intent with the Dallas Stars, an incentive agreement with development partners, the creation of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone and a resolution that could eventually lead to a public vote on venue taxes to help fund the project.
The proposed development would be anchored by a new multipurpose arena that would serve as the future home ice for the Stars. Plans also call for additional sports and entertainment venues, retail, restaurants, residential development, public spaces and infrastructure improvements around The Shops at Willow Bend.
The council’s approval allows the city to pursue funding opportunities, continue negotiations with project partners and begin additional planning work.
Residents packed the meeting and voiced both support and concerns about the proposal.
“I don’t oppose the Stars arena. I think the project is remarkable for Plano. But there’s an infrastructure gap that I believe has not been addressed,” resident Drew Nickerson said.
Another resident urged city leaders to move carefully.
“The projects will bring economic vitality and great amenities to Plano. We ask that they be implemented thoughtfully,” the resident said.
Others raised concerns about how the development could transform the area.
“In effect, we are being asked to reform Willow Bend from a retail destination into a regional entertainment destination. Before taking that step, residents deserve clear answers,” resident Rene Elgersma said.
Plano City Council member Bob Kehr emphasized that the process is still in its early stages.
“This is really just the beginning. This is really where we’re getting a chance to really get started. I wanted to say the residents all have their chance to give us plenty of input,” Kehr said.
Following the vote, Mayor John Muns said the city is evaluating an opportunity presented by the Stars organization.
“Plano has built a reputation as a city that welcomes world-class partners and community-focused investment,” Muns said in a statement. “These actions are a significant first step as we evaluate the potential for a thoughtfully designed sports and entertainment district that reflects the priorities and values of our community.”
The newly created Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone includes The Shops at Willow Bend and surrounding nonresidential property along the Dallas North Tollway. City officials said the zone would help support future infrastructure and development needs tied to the project.
Under state law, the venue project resolution must be submitted to the Texas Comptroller before the city can call an election. If approved, Plano could hold a venue tax election as early as Nov. 3, 2026.
Potential ballot propositions could include taxes on hotel stays, short-term vehicle rentals, event parking, event admissions and venue use by professional team members. City officials said those revenues would help support construction of the arena and related infrastructure.
Residents will have additional opportunities to provide feedback during community open houses scheduled for July 8 and July 14 at The Shops at Willow Bend. A virtual open house will also be available from July 8 through July 22.
City officials said traffic modeling and mobility studies will be among the next steps as planners evaluate how a sports and entertainment district could affect surrounding roads, parking, pedestrian access and traffic flow.
While many details remain to be finalized, Monday’s votes marked the most significant step yet toward bringing the Dallas Stars to Plano.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.nbcdfw.com ’
