The City of McKinney began work this month on an extensive infrastructure project on W. Virginia Pkwy. between Kentucky St. and Church St. in Historic Downtown McKinney. This project is slated to be completed prior to Thanksgiving.
“McKinney is over 159 years old and Historic Downtown is where it all began. It’s our responsibility to continue to maintain a vibrant historic district for years to come, and with this comes the need for infrastructure improvements,” said Ty Lake, Director of McKinney Main Street. “Although the construction process is disruptive to Historic Downtown’s daily business, the end result will be well worth it. This phase of the Downtown Beautification Program will add a great benefit for our customers’ shopping experience for years to come.”
The city will replace water lines located under W. Virginia Pkwy. before repaving the street and improving sidewalks. In addition, trees and additional beautification elements will be incorporated into the area. The project also includes repaving, re-striping and beautification enhancements to the parking lot directly east of Mitchell Park in Historic Downtown McKinney.
During the construction period, one lane of traffic will be open at all times for through traffic, deliveries, pick-ups and drop-offs. The parking located on the side of the street that is open will only be used as a loading zone. Cars are not allowed to park for extended periods on this block during the infrastructure phase.
“Many downtown property owners have told me they are encouraged by the consistent loyalty and support of their customer base and other downtown businesses during this project,” Lake continued. “While the construction may seem like a reason not to visit until the dust clears, I encourage McKinney and residents of surrounding cities to take a chance. Explore Historic Downtown McKinney, support our businesses and experience the unique charm the area offers, even while we are under construction.”
The City of McKinney Communications and Marketing Department has created an extensive marketing campaign titled, “Shop Outside the Box and Inside the Construction Zone” to encourage patrons to visit Historic Downtown while construction is taking place. The stores directly affected by this project are: Abode and Baby Abode; Allstate Insurance; Café Malaga; Walls of Clay; Mama Emilia’s Italian Restaurant; Loughmiller and Puhl LLP; Adorn Body and Home; Society; Stonewood Creators; The Cake Stand; CASA; Upstage Dancewear; Northwestern Mutual Financial Network; The Wooten Center; and Goodhue’s Wood Fire Grill.
