In this week’s edition, learn more about McKinney’s choice to move on from the $45 million Lower 5 Plaza project plan. Plus, find out more on the newest six restaurants to open in the metroplex. Finally, learn about a new medical office development underway.

The overview: McKinney officials are moving on from the Lower 5 Plaza project after the loss of $15 million in federal funding that was confirmed in August.

Instead, city officials are redirecting efforts to additional improvements along the State Highway 5 corridor. Planned improvements include additional pedestrian crossings along the corridor and an enhanced at-grade crossing where the $45 million Lower 5 Plaza project would have been located.

McKinney City Council members voted on a resolution to redirect efforts during a Sept. 16 meeting. The action was followed by a staff update earlier that day during a council work session.

The details: Instead of a bridge built at ground level with a park that extends under SH 5, city officials are now planning for an improved at-grade crossing in the same location. The project scope now also includes plans for an additional eight pedestrian crossings along the road.

The enhanced at-grade crossing is estimated to cost $2 million and the additional pedestrian crossings are estimated to cost $4 million, according to a staff presentation. City staff will coordinate with the Texas Department of Transportation and the North Central Texas Council of Governments to incorporate additional improvements along SH 5, Lund said.

TxDOT officials are already planning reconstruction of SH 5 between McMakin Street and Power House Street. That project is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, according to a city document.

Levant BBQ is set to open in the first quarter of 2026 in Frisco, owner Mohamad Kharboutli said.

The menu will feature slow smoked meats including brisket, beef ribs and lamb. The restaurant will also serve sandwiches, brisket shawarmas and family platters to create a family-friendly dining experience. Rice, dips, corn and salads will be available as side options. Read now.

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Hinoki is currently open in Frisco for lunch and dinner, offering a variety of menu items.

The restaurant offers a signature six course meal that includes appetizers, nigiri, soup and sweets.

The new restaurant also offers individual menu items such as edamame on the appetizer menu and marinated cod on the lunch and dinner menu.
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Slick City Action Park, an indoor adventure park, is slated to open in Plano this fall.

The new facility will offer attractions such as jungle gyms, slides, go-carts and swings, along with special programs including adults-only nights and designated times for toddlers, according to the company’s website.

The Plano location will be at the intersection of Park Boulevard and Preston Road. Read now.

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