Frisco is one step closer to becoming the home of a performing arts center.
With a unanimous vote during its June 1 meeting, the Frisco City Council agreed to enter into a master development agreement with the city’s Community and Economic Development Corporations, Frisco ISD and Hall Park to build the center.
Approval of the agreement is required by other public boards, specifically those of the Frisco Community Development Corporation, Frisco Economic Development Corporation and Frisco ISD. Pending approval, the design process for the proposed performing arts center could begin in early 2022.
“This is something our community has been dreaming about for years,” Frisco Mayor Jeff Chaney said. “Frisco is known for its innovative public-private partnership model used to develop thriving sports and entertainment venues; however, there’s growing need for greater investment in the arts.”
The center, to be built on five acres at Hall Park, on Gaylord Parkway near the Dallas North Tollway, would feature a 1,250-seat performance hall as well as a smaller, 250-seat venue. A five-acre park boasting open space and a playground, as well as a multi-story parking garage, would also be constructed as part of the project that has an estimated price tag of $114 million.
That cost includes $99 million in public funds and $25 million from Hall Park. However, the private investment does not include the value of the 10 acres of land provided by Hall Park for the construction of the center, garage and park.
The Frisco Economic Development Corporation plans to provide $5 million in infrastructure and grants to support the redevelopment of Hall Park through a separate performance agreement. Planned improvements include the redevelopment of a 15-story office building to feature a pair of hotels and a parking garage, as well as the construction of a 214-unit luxury high-rise residential building.
Tammy Meinershagen, chair of Frisco Arts, was pleased by the council’s vote. She points to a recent Visit Frisco study that revealed residents frequently venture outside the of city in search of the arts and cultural opportunities that are available elsewhere.
“A performing arts center in Frisco will be a game changer for our city, especially if we can welcome Broadway, local arts groups, and talented students all in one place,” Meinershagen said. “Frisco has dreamed big for sports with multiple world-class venues and professionals in the industry coming to our city. It’s time to dream big for the arts.”
