The next phase of transforming a 1,200-acre section of Richardson’s Telecom Corridor® area is underway. The goal of the redevelopment is to have the Collins/Arapaho Transit-Oriented Development and Innovation District become a tech hub in North Texas and be an area that will support innovation and a range of businesses, while encouraging the creation of an inviting, green, lively, walkable and bikeable space.

The District is bordered by US 75, Campbell Road, Plano Road and Apollo Road and was subject of a nine-month study that was completed in late 2018. Of the 10 key strategies identified by the study, two are related to zoning entitlements and considered high priority for implementation in 2019:

  • Allow zoning flexibility in industrial zones
  • Redevelop key opportunity sites to bring new uses and activities to the District

These strategies involve a zoning entitlement process that will lead to modified development regulations for the entire District, to allow for more flexibility in design features such as building materials, parking, signage and building height for existing industrial properties. The zoning entitlement process will also include the creation of new comprehensive development regulations of key opportunity sites identified in the study, such as the Arapaho Center DART Station, to anchor the District and bring new diverse activities. The process will include ongoing engagement with property owners and key stakeholders and draft ordinance preparation involving community workshops and public hearings.

During the nine-month study, Richardson planners received input from stakeholders, the City Council, institutional partners (UT Dallas, Richland College, DART and the Richardson Chamber) and the public. The results align with and expand on objectives developed in a 2017 study conducted by the Chamber’s East Arapaho/Collins Task Force. Development Services plans to continue to refine the strategies and options for implementation utilizing City Council feedback and continued input from institutional partners and the private sector.

For more information about the Collins/Arapaho TOD and Innovation District, visit www.cor.net/collinsarapaho.