During a Jan. 7 work session, McKinney City Council members unveiled plans for a transformative expansion of McKinney National Airport.
The project, featuring a 45,000-square-foot terminal, aims to provide commercial passenger service for the growing North Texas region.
This bold initiative underscores McKinney's vision to enhance connectivity, boost local economic growth, and serve as a regional transportation hub.
The expansion comes with a thoughtfully designed funding plan and promises to reshape McKinney's future.
Key Facts and Numbers
- The terminal, spanning 45,000 square feet, will initially include three gates with the potential to expand to five gates.
- The ground-loading design will allow for efficient dual boarding from both the front and back of planes, a process preferred by many airlines.
- Passengers will enjoy a quick-service concessions stand, spacious hold rooms, and convenient access to rental cars and ride-share drop-off points.
- With 1,500 parking spaces, six aircraft parking positions, and an aircraft de-icing facility, the airport will cater to both commercial and general aviation.
- Infrastructure upgrades include the addition of Taxiway C on the east side of the runway and a roundabout off FM 546, designed to accommodate 170 cars during peak hours while minimizing traffic disruptions.
- The project is expected to cost $72 million, with construction slated to begin in May 2025 and commercial service anticipated to launch by late 2026.
Funding Breakdown
The McKinney National Airport project is supported by a carefully crafted funding plan, leveraging a mix of local and federal contributions:
- $30 million will come from federal low-interest transportation infrastructure loans, demonstrating federal confidence in the project’s viability.
- $22 million is anticipated from a future grant by the McKinney Economic Development Corporation, ensuring the city's ongoing investment in economic growth.
- $14 million represents the current funding gap, which could be addressed through additional state and federal grants.
- $2 million has already been secured from the McKinney Economic Development Corporation grants, providing a strong foundation for the project.
- Additional grants from the McKinney Community Development Corporation reinforce local commitment to infrastructure improvements.
Economic and Community Impact
- McKinney officials project the airport will serve 200,000 passengers annually in its initial years and up to 1 million passengers annually by its fifth year of operation.
- The city is in active discussions with two airlines to bring passenger service to McKinney, with plans for three daily departures initially.
- Beyond enhanced connectivity, the project is expected to deliver increased job opportunities, attract new businesses, and improve the quality of life for McKinney and nearby communities.
Looking Ahead
The McKinney Planning and Zoning Commission will review the site plan on Jan. 14, accompanied by requests for design exceptions, including adjustments to the airport’s parking lot tree requirements.
City leaders remain committed to moving the project forward while addressing funding and design challenges.
The McKinney National Airport expansion is not just about infrastructure; it’s about transforming the region into a hub of opportunity, convenience, and growth. With a strategic funding plan in place and a vision for the future, the city is ready to soar.