On the heels of the Dallas Mavericks’ relocation announcement, the Dallas Stars have quickly followed suit. While the Mavs will remain in city limits, the Dallas Stars will build a new arena in Plano.
Official Proposal and City Council Review
Earlier this week, the Dallas Stars signed a non-binding Letter of Intent (LOI) to construct a new arena and surrounding entertainment district. The document details the blueprints for the mixed-use development, alongside the arena’s design and construction phases. The City of Plano has officially placed the proposal on its upcoming Monday City Council agenda for review.
Reimagining Willow Bend
The proposed 75-acre site is located at The Shops at Willow Bend, approximately 17 miles north of the American Airlines Center. Opened in 2001 and holding the title of the last-built traditional mall in Texas, the property is currently slated for demolition to make way for the “Vision for The Bend” redevelopment project.
This sprawling, open-air lifestyle hub will feature high-end retail, green spaces, and—contingent on City Council approval—the new Dallas Stars arena and entertainment center.
“This project would present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our franchise,” Dallas Stars Owner, Governor, and Chairman Tom Gaglardi said in a statement. “We eagerly await the vote by the Plano City Council and look forward to continuing the conversation to be part of the redevelopment of The Shops at Willow Bend.”
Financial Scope and City Partnership
The comprehensive entertainment district and arena project is estimated to cost approximately $1 billion. As reported by the Dallas Business Journal, sources indicate the City of Plano would provide around $700 million in funding to support the development.
“Plano has built a reputation as a city that welcomes world-class partners and community-focused investment,” Plano Mayor John Muns said. “The Dallas Stars are an iconic North Texas organization, and we are encouraged by their interest as conversations move forward.”
Projected Timeline
As with the Mavericks, the Dallas Stars’ contract with American Airlines Center runs through 2031. Reports indicate that construction on the stadium would begin around 2028-2029, with the Stars expected to debut in the new arena for the 2031-2032 season.
The City of Plano will review the Dallas Stars’ proposal at its Monday City Council meeting on Monday, June 8.
