While a proposed $1 billion Dallas Stars arena could soon anchor the redevelopment of Plano’s Shops at Willow Bend, the project is far from a done deal. An October 12 City Council update highlighted ongoing concerns surrounding traffic, infrastructure, and neighborhood impacts, leaving final development agreements and the team’s official relocation still up in the air.
Traffic And Neighborhood Impacts
Traffic remains the top concern for a local advisory committee, but with a formal analysis still underway, questions about congestion and road improvements are unanswered.
Opponents also questioned funding for infrastructure upgrades like power and drainage, though Mayor John Muns insists the city can support the project.
Regarding security, Police Chief Ed Drain confirmed event organizers—not the city—would cover the costs of extra police. Finally, the committee projected only gradual, delayed property value increases driven by the wider entertainment district rather than the arena itself.
A Proposed $3 Billion Development
The proposal combines the estimated $1 billion arena with a roughly $2 billion mixed-use entertainment district. Plano would own the venue and lease it to the Stars under the proposed arrangement.
The city has outlined a contribution of up to $700 million and approved a tax increment reinvestment zone to support financing. However, off-site traffic-mitigation costs remain under discussion, so that figure should not be presented as covering every infrastructure expense.
Proposition A Goes To Voters
On November 3, voters will decide on Proposition A, which would authorize the arena project and up to five new taxes to help fund it. However, passing the measure wouldn’t finalize any development contracts or lock in the Stars’ relocation.
The maximum proposed rates are:
- Event tickets: 10% of the ticket price.
- Venue parking: $3 per vehicle.
- Short-term vehicle rentals: 5% of gross rental receipts citywide.
- Hotel rooms: An additional 2% citywide.
- Venue facility use: $5,000 per game for each major-league team member playing at the venue
Approval would not automatically impose every tax at its maximum. A $100 ticket could incur a $10 admissions tax. The measure does not increase Plano’s property-tax rate, although residents making applicable purchases could pay the venue taxes.
What Happens Next?
Muns said Plano would explore alternative revenue sources if voters reject the measure, meaning a “no” vote would not necessarily cancel the proposal. Mall demolition is expected to begin in 2027, according to FOX 4; that is not an arena opening date.
Early voting runs October 19–30. Traffic studies, infrastructure negotiations and final agreements remain outstanding.
