City leaders in Plano presented detailed plans for a proposed sports and entertainment district that could house the Dallas Stars, marking the latest step in efforts to relocate the NHL team from Downtown Dallas. The presentation occurred during a community open house held Wednesday at the Shops at Willow Bend, following the team's announcement that it might move to the Plano area.
The proposal outlines a new arena alongside a broader development intended to replace the struggling shopping center located near the intersection of the Dallas North Tollway and West Park Boulevard. Attendees were shown architectural renderings and provided opportunities to ask questions regarding potential impacts on traffic, noise levels, parking availability, and lighting.
Amanda McNew, a spokesperson for the city, described the arena concept as a natural fit for the community. She noted that development in the area was likely regardless of the team's involvement, but expressed excitement about the partnership with the Dallas Stars. The city has already moved forward with the arena proposal, which received a unanimous vote from city leaders last month.
The next phase of the development process involves conducting a traffic study to assess how the project will affect local residents and drivers. A key component of the plan is a special venue tax designed to fund planning, development, and construction. This tax measure requires a special election scheduled for early November.
