Officials in Plano recently addressed concerns surrounding the proposed Dallas Stars arena, which is set to replace the current Shops at Willow Bend Mall. During a city council meeting, city leaders discussed updates on the project while residents expressed their opposition to a potential tax that could help fund it.
The new arena, expected to cost around $1 billion, could be partially financed through Proposition A, which will be on the ballot in November. This proposal aims to introduce a tax on hotels, car rentals, and other services in the city. In response, a group of residents has formed Stop The Stars Arena, actively campaigning against the tax.
The Dallas Stars announced their plans for the new arena and entertainment district back in May. Following this announcement, the Plano City Council agreed to allocate up to $700 million towards the project. The overall development, including the entertainment district, is projected to reach a staggering $3 billion.
In June, the council approved a tax increment reinvestment zone, which will allow tax revenue collected in the vicinity to be used to support bonds for the project. Furthermore, Proposition A was officially added to the upcoming ballot in August, with expected revenue from the tax estimated between $700 million and $900 million if approved.
Plans to demolish the existing mall are set to commence in 2027, marking a significant transformation of the area.
During the recent council meeting, the Willow Bend Redevelopment Advisory Committee provided updates on the demolition and the subsequent construction of the Dallas Stars arena and entertainment district. They indicated that while nearby property values might appreciate steadily, significant increases would not be seen immediately after the project’s completion.
Concerns regarding traffic were highlighted as a major issue, though specific data was not presented to address these worries. Plano Police Chief Ed Drain noted that the police department would need additional resources for game nights, but reassured that the event organizers would cover these costs.
Residents opposing the arena voiced their concerns during the public comment segment of the meeting. David Romick, a member of the Stop The Stars Arena PAC, emphasized the need for clarity regarding other associated costs, such as infrastructure improvements and drainage, which remain unresolved.
Mayor John Muns clarified that Proposition A is not a property tax, reinforcing a message previously stated by Dallas Stars leadership. He expressed confidence in Plano’s ability to support the project, stating, “Maybe we weren’t ready for this 20 years ago, but we are today.”
As the date for the election on Proposition A approaches, the outcome will determine the future of the Dallas Stars arena project. Mayor Muns indicated that if the proposition does not pass, alternative funding sources for the arena will be explored.
