McKinney is on track to join the ranks of Texas cities offering commercial air travel, thanks to a significant decision by the city council.
On Tuesday night, officials approved zoning changes to facilitate the development of essential infrastructure for passenger airlines, positioning the city to compete with Love Field and DFW Airport, reported CBS.
The plans include a 30,000-square-foot passenger terminal, a 1,500-space parking garage, and large jet fuel storage tanks.
Additional improvements, such as a water and sewage system for the undeveloped east side of the airport, are also in the works. Construction on the terminal is set to begin next year, with commercial passenger services expected by the end of 2026.
“This is a huge thing,” Mayor George Fuller said. “Our airport has been a tremendously successful asset, not just for this community but for the region. Developing the east side is the only way to continue taking advantage of this asset.”
The airport expansion comes after voters rejected a $300 million bond package to fund the project last year. However, Mayor Fuller assured residents that the city could proceed without increasing taxes. The project will instead rely on grants and support from economic development groups.
The airport’s development promises significant regional benefits, including boosting McKinney’s economic standing and providing greater travel convenience for residents and businesses. The improvements are also expected to attract new industries and enhance local infrastructure, solidifying McKinney’s position as a regional hub.
The move reflects McKinney’s strategic growth ambitions, aligning with the city’s broader goals to diversify its economy and enhance its appeal. Adding commercial airline services will provide new travel options for residents and reduce dependency on larger airports in neighboring cities.
Mayor Fuller emphasized the project’s transformative potential, underscoring how the expansion maximizes the airport’s value. “We are, in essence, completely built out on the west side of the airport,” he said. “The only way forward is to develop the east side.”
With construction of the terminal starting next year and runway expansion already underway, McKinney is poised to become a key player in regional air travel. The city’s vision for the airport marks a bold step in shaping its future as a transportation and economic powerhouse.