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1. What changes are being proposed along Louisiana Street?

The city is not currently proposing any major changes to the existing function of the corridor. Improvements will occur within the existing right-of-way (or limits of building faces) and may include modifications to the grades of the street and pedestrian walkways. Overall corridor aesthetics will be similar to work previously completed in 2014 along Virginia Street (Tennessee – S.H. 5) and Kentucky Street (Hunt – Virginia, Louisiana – Davis).

2. What are the primary city priorities the project will address?

• Improve the overall function of the corridor as a “complete street” concept which prioritizes all users and does not place emphasis on vehicular traffic.
• Improving pedestrian walkways and ensuring any reconstruction of pedestrian facilities is in accordance with ADA requirements.
• Replacement of underground water and wastewater utilities which are reaching the end of their serviceable life and are due for replacement.
• Reconstruction of street paving and improvements to storm drainage; possible elimination of tall or double curbs along on-street parking, which pose a safety hazard.
• Improve the visual aesthetic of the corridor similar to other improved corridors in downtown.
• Improve and upgrade corridor lighting.

3. Why were these improvements not made in 2014 with the previous work completed along Virginia Street and Kentucky Street?

The reconstruction of streets and pedestrian walkways in the vicinity of the downtown square have been completed in strategic phases to reduce impacts to traffic flow, pedestrian traffic, and area businesses. By completing these needed infrastructure improvements on a 3-5 year cycle, the city is able to focus construction efforts along specific corridors reducing construction time-frame and temporary impacts to downtown.

4. Does the city have funding to complete this project?

Yes – The Capital Improvements Plan (CIP) has previously identified funding sources for improvements to Louisiana Street under Project CO4238 – Town Center Infrastructure Improvements. The overall project funding, from previously voter-authorized transportation bonds, is set at $5 million and will cover cost for design and construction.

5. When is construction expected to begin and how long will it take?

Design is expected to be completed in Spring 2020 with construction beginning as soon as late Spring / early Summer 2020. The Engineering Department will phase construction of the improvements along Louisiana Street such that no more than one section is under construction at any given time. For this project, a minimum of two (2) phases are being proposed:

• Phase 1: Church Street to Kentucky Street
• Phase 2: Tennessee Street to McDonald Street / SH 5

It is estimated that construction of Phase 1 and Phase 2 will take approximately 5 months and 9 months, respectively, to substantially complete. For the purposes of construction, substantial completion is defined as all major work items functioning as intended but prior to City acceptance of the project. It is expected that Phase 1 will be completed prior to the 2020 Holiday Season, with construction of Phase 2 beginning in January 2021.

6. How will the city ensure that impacts to the operation of my business are minimized during construction?

During construction of each phase, safe pedestrian access to all businesses will be made available during normal business hours. Temporary signage will be installed for alternative parking, business access, and pedestrian access. During work in the street, temporary closure of on-street parking should be expected in addition to any required traffic lane closures and/or detours. Typical construction hours will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday with weekend work accommodated as necessary. Overnight work may be considered in key locations to expedite construction and where construction activities are not considered a hazard or nuisance (per ordinance) to surrounding businesses and residents.

Construction will be restricted during the holiday season generally between Thanksgiving and New Years as well as during major downtown events such as Arts in Bloom, Red, White, and BOOM!, and Oktoberfest to minimize any construction-related disruptions.

7. What impact will this project have on downtown?

Downtown McKinney, recently recognized as a cultural district, attracts citizens and visitors for shopping, dining and arts through a variety of independently-owned shops and restaurants, events, and through strong support and preservation of the historic features that influence economic vitality. These infrastructure improvements ensure that it remains a vibrant, walkable, and unique destination for locals and visitors alike.

8. How can I stay informed on the development of the project prior to construction?

The Current project status is available at any time through the Interactive CIP interactive map which can be found at: www.mckinneytexas.org/ProjectStatus

For project inquiries email Louisiana@McKinneyTexas.org or call 972-547-3489.