McKinney approves $300M Sunset Amphitheater and plans for Cannon Beach lagoon resort

In a bustling McKinney City Council and McKinney Independent School District Board of Trustees joint meeting, critical discussions unfolded about the city's growth and infrastructure challenges. As residents voiced concerns about traffic congestion, particularly on FM 546, officials acknowledged the pressing need for solutions. The road, maintained by the state, has become a focal point for both McKinney and neighboring Princeton, which is grappling with similar growth-related issues.

City leaders revealed that Collin County and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are collaborating on a new alignment for FM 546, aimed at improving access from the East Fork of the Trinity River to the airport. However, funding for this project remains uncertain, leaving many residents anxious about the future of their daily commutes. The urgency of the situation was underscored by reports of accidents on the road, including fatalities, prompting calls for immediate action.

In addition to traffic concerns, the meeting highlighted significant economic development projects poised to reshape McKinney's landscape. One of the most anticipated developments is the Sunset Amphitheater, a $300 million investment expected to draw 700,000 visitors annually. With a unique design featuring luxury fire pit suites, the amphitheater aims to host a minimum of 45 shows each year, with groundbreaking scheduled for early April 2025.

Another exciting project discussed was Cannon Beach, a mixed-use development featuring a three-acre lagoon designed to create surf waves, alongside a restaurant and boutique hotel. This $200 million investment is projected to generate 700 jobs and attract 300,000 visitors annually, further enhancing McKinney's appeal as a destination.

As the meeting concluded, the council and board members expressed optimism about these developments while remaining acutely aware of the infrastructure challenges that must be addressed to support the city's growth. The discussions underscored a pivotal moment for McKinney, balancing the excitement of new projects with the pressing need for improved transportation solutions.