Frisco Celebrates End of $83 Million Downtown Reinvestment Project

(October 13, 2026) Frisco is celebrating the completion of an $83 million downtown reinvestment project which included the reconstruction of Elm and Main Streets, construction of a new five-story parking garage and development of 4th Street Plaza.

Hundreds of residents and business owners marked the milestone with Frisco city leaders and staff, gathering at 4th Street Plaza, located at 8802 4th Street.

“It’s no secret the Rail District and events that bring our community together, particularly in a growing city like Frisco, are high priorities for me,” said Mayor Mark Hill. “I’m thrilled to see this Rail District centerpiece come to life!”

A railroad theme is showcased throughout all elements of project – from the plaza shade structure fashioned after railroad track…to the Main Street medians branded with the city’s historic railroad logo…to paneling resembling boxcars in the plaza.

The reconstruction of Elm and Main Streets, from 1st to North County, included a new 12-inch water line and underground storm water system.  Decorative bricks and lighting were also installed. Improved Main Street also features wider sidewalks, providing space for patio tables and retail activities.

Other improvements include 450 free spaces in the new parking garage. Larger caliper trees were installed to provide immediate impact.  Main Street is lined with 65 trees and 4th Street Plaza features a total 164 trees on both the north and south sides of the plaza.  There are nine species of trees, providing color year-round.

The plaza is designed to welcome downtown’s annual food truck festival, StrEATS. The layout considers festival growth, allowing for expansion westward to 3rd Street.  A permanent stage will complement a variety of performances. Sunrise yoga classes are already popular Saturday mornings in the plaza. Bathrooms are also available.

The cost of the $83 million improvements is covered by voter approved bonds and contributions from the Frisco Economic Development Corporation (FEDC) and the Frisco Community Development Corporation (FCDC). 

Bonds: $67.5 million
FEDC: $10.9 million
FCDC: $1.66 million
Other: $2.83 million
Total: $83 million

“Reinvesting in the Rail District strengthens one of Frisco’s most important historic and economic assets,” said Shanna Keaveny, Chair, Frisco Economic Development Corporation.  “A thriving downtown is essential to the success of any great city, and the Frisco EDC has been deeply committed to supporting this area throughout its reinvestment. “

“The Frisco Community Development Corporation has a proven commitment to the Rail District, and 4th Street Plaza is the keystone to the investment we’ve made in recent years,” said Chad Brubaker, President, Frisco Community Development Corporation. “With new businesses opening, patios coming online and a full calendar of events and arts programming ahead, people have a real reason to rediscover the Rail District.”

“What you are seeing and experiencing today is the culmination of a 13-year journey from idea to reality,” said John Lettelleir, Director of Development Services. “I hope this project demonstrates we delivered on that promise in creating a special gathering place in our downtown. This is only the beginning.  We are working with developers and business owners on redeveloping their properties.”

Projects of this scale don't happen without strong partnerships,” said Matt Dubois, Assistant Director, Engineering Services. “During construction, Rail District business owners and residents navigated detours, changing traffic patterns, and temporary disruptions while continuing to serve customers and invest in downtown Frisco. Through it all, they remained committed to this district and to its future.”

“What you see around us is more than a beautiful new public space. It’s a place where Frisco’s history meets its future,” said Ricardo Sanchez, Capital Improvement Project Manager, Parks and Recreation. “My greatest hope is that years from now, people won’t remember the construction. They’ll remember the concerts, the celebrations, the friendships, and the memories made right here. Ultimately, we don’t just build places. We build places for people.”

Go to the City of Frisco facebook page for photos

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Dana Baird

Director of Communications & Media Relations

City of Frisco

972-292-5080 direct

972-897-1766 cell