Plano Headlines: Willow Bend Shakeup, Security Grant Move, and Community Events

Plano is seeing movement on several fronts this week, from mall redevelopment plans to public safety funding and community gatherings.

Willow Bend Tenants Preparing to Exit

More changes are unfolding at The Shops at Willow Bend as redevelopment discussions continue.

North Texas Performing Arts announced it is making plans to leave the mall within the year after being asked to prepare for potential redevelopment. The property has been the subject of ongoing talks involving a possible new arena project. The arts organization, which serves thousands of local students each year, says it will continue programming while it searches for a new home.

At the same time, the Crayola Experience has again closed temporarily at the mall, adding to uncertainty around the property’s future. City leaders have previously acknowledged discussions about large-scale redevelopment at the site.

City Council Advances Homeland Security Grant

During its March 9 meeting, Plano City Council authorized the filing of an application for up to $200,590 in federal funds under the Fiscal Year 2026 State Homeland Security Grant Program.

If approved, the funds would support emergency management efforts. The resolution designates the city’s Director of Emergency Management as the authorized representative for the application process. The move is part of Plano’s ongoing efforts to strengthen preparedness and response capabilities.

Community Events Fill the Calendar

Residents looking for something closer to home will find several events happening today, March 10.

The ArtCentre of Plano is hosting the Emmanuel Gillespie Joy Series exhibition, while Legacy West is serving as a drop-off location for a prom dress drive benefiting local students. Workshops and special events are also scheduled at Willow Bend throughout the day.

With redevelopment conversations, public safety planning and neighborhood events all in motion, it is shaping up to be a busy week across Plano.

Sources

https://www.dallasnews.com/business/retail/2026/03/09/plano-arts-group-exiting-willow-bend-crayola-shuts-again-as-site-eyed-for-hockey-arena/
https://motioncount.com/meetings/planoTX_63a0370e
https://events.visitplano.com/calendar/day/2026/3/10