Plano Moves Toward New Stars Arena

Plano’s city council voted 8‑0 to approve a Letter of Intent that could bring the Dallas Stars hockey team to the suburb.
The motion does not guarantee construction, but it opens the door for further talks between the team and city officials.

What’s on the Table

• The Shops at Willow Bend – a shopping mall slated to transform into a sports and entertainment hub.
• New Arena – the centerpiece, estimated at $1 billion for construction.
• Supporting Amenities – restaurants, shops, public plazas to create a vibrant district.

Funding

• Total District Cost – up to $3 billion.
• Plano’s Contribution – up to $700 million, sourced from a tax‑reinvestment zone and other mechanisms.

Why It Matters

• The Stars’ current lease ends in 2031; the franchise seeks a long‑term home.
• If Plano wins, it would be the first time the Stars play games outside Dallas city limits.
• The Dallas Mavericks are also exploring new locations, adding competitive dynamics.

The council’s vote marks a key milestone, but it is not the final decision on where the team will play.