Randy Burk, owner of Randy’s Steakhouse, fought back tears as he spoke about the hardships downtown construction has made for his business at a city council meeting on September 16. He was wearing a t-shirt with the words “Save Main” printed on the front.
“My wife and I have completely depleted our savings, and we’re borrowing money from family members,” Burk told the city council. “We’ve been struggling just to keep everything going.”
The work Burk mentioned is part of a $69 million endeavor to rebuild downtown Frisco. The project began in July 2024 with construction on Main Street, followed by work on 4th Street Plaza in September.
The goal is to improve the district’s walkability, increase meeting places, and establish a venue for live music and shows, all in the hopes of attracting more residents, visitors, and companies.
The interruptions are currently having a significant impact. Burk claims his firm is down 60%, and he is not alone in his struggles. During their first municipal meeting, the proprietors of Simply Thai Bistro revealed that they had lost almost 40% of their revenues.
Rich Vana, chef and owner of Heritage Table, advised councilmembers to consider not only the immediate challenges, but also the long-term impact construction could have on downtown businesses.
Lee Gonzales, proprietor of La Finca Coffee & Bakery, described the situation as severe. “Downtown businesses are hurting,” Gonzales added. “We’ve all been affected in a major way.”
Large work trucks obstruct parking on Main Street today, roadways are being torn up, and dust lingers in the air, making it difficult for visitors to visit downtown.
City Response
At the council meeting, Mayor Jeff Cheney stated that $500,000 would be made available through the Rail District Reinvestment Grant Program to assist companies affected by construction.
The city intends to meet with owners to determine how the monies should be utilized, with a work session scheduled for October. Cheney acknowledged the difficulties, but highlighted the common aim of finishing the revitalization project together.
Scott Hoffner, owner of Didi’s Downtown and head of the “Save Main” organization, expressed gratitude for the $500,000 in relief assistance while emphasizing that “it is bigger than that.” He told the council that it is impossible to keep personnel when there are so few consumers, and that money “doesn’t equate to the loss.”
About the grant program
The Rail District Reinvestment Grant Program aims to improve the look, feel, and long-term profitability of downtown Frisco. It focuses on improving building façades, streetscapes, patios, and courtyards, as well as supporting safety enhancements and internal improvements that help businesses stay viable.
Projects must be within the Rail District and adhere to city ordinances, development codes, and Type B Sales Tax Funding requirements. Businesses can determine eligibility and apply here.
A Bigger Vision for Downtown
The new $500,000 relief fund is part of Frisco’s wider investment in its historic downtown. Since 2016, when the concept of a Master Plan for the district was initially proposed, the city has invested more than $80 million.
This comprises rebuilding Elm and Main Streets, erecting a five-story parking garage, establishing the 4th Street Plaza, installing signage, and expanding parking.
In the coming weeks, municipal personnel will meet with business owners to seek recommendations on how to best spend the relief funds. A plan is likely to go before council in early October.
The majority of Main Street development is planned to be completed by the end of 2025, with landscaping and sidewalks finishing in January.
