In 1981, Collin Creek opened its doors as Plano's first large-scale shopping mall. Maybe you or your kids roamed its halls, listening to Bette Davis Eyes while dressed in leg warmers and shoulder pads. Or perhaps oversized sweaters and big hair were more your style. For decades, families visited the mall for shopping and entertainment alike. It was a hangout spot, a special place that many neighborhood residents still remember fondly.
Factors such as changing demographics and evolving shopping patterns eventually led to the mall’s closure in 2019, effectively bringing this community-centered legacy to a halt.
Fortunately, this story has a happy ending. While dressing up like Madonna may have gone out of fashion, the mall itself certainly has not. It is back — bigger, better and eagerly awaiting the return of loyal Plano residents.
A joint public-private partnership between the developer Centurion American Development Group and the city of Plano has been the catalyst for Collin Creek's revitalization.
“I have been associated with Centurion American for over two decades. The most rewarding part of my role is seeing the tangible impact of our projects on communities,” said Rob Romo, vice president at Centurion American. “From revitalizing historic spaces to creating modern developments, it’s incredibly fulfilling to oversee projects that not only enhance the local economy but also improve the quality of life for residents. Being a part of such transformative projects is both challenging and deeply satisfying.”
In the past, Collin Creek stood as a beloved gathering place. Today, construction efforts are recapturing its essence with the addition of large-scale residential and commercial areas. This includes:
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300,000 square feet of retail, including 60,000 square feet dedicated to restaurants
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A master-planned community featuring 500 single-family homes, 2,300 multifamily units and 300 independent living residences
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Eight acres of park space and 1.6 miles of walking trails
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Single-family homes, which are already available for purchase
Looking toward the future, here’s what Romo had to say about this exciting project:
What can we expect from the revitalization project of Collin Creek in Plano?
“The Collin Creek revitalization represents an extraordinary effort to honor Plano’s history while creating a vibrant mixed-use space for future generations. What excites me most is the blend of modern amenities, like upscale dining and luxury living, with the charm and nostalgia of the mall’s legacy.”
What may be different about this revitalization project compared to other projects undertaken in Texas?
“Unlike other projects, Collin Creek is deeply rooted in community history and memory. This project is not just about creating something new; it’s about reimagining a beloved landmark while preserving its sentimental value. We’ve also incorporated extensive community engagement in the planning process, ensuring the final result reflects the desires and needs of Plano residents.”
What is Centurion American’s overall vision for this mall?
“Centurion American’s vision for Collin Creek Mall is to create a vibrant, multifunctional hub where people can live, work, shop and play. We aim to balance the nostalgia of the original mall with cutting-edge design, including luxury apartments, boutique shopping and creative public spaces that encourage community interaction.”
The renaissance of Collin Creek comes with yet another outstanding feature. According to Romo, “The economic impact will be substantial, generating hundreds of jobs during construction and thousands more once the development is operational. It will also attract new businesses and residents, increasing Plano’s tax base and stimulating growth across the retail, hospitality and real estate sectors.”
Nonetheless, some residents have expressed concerns about traffic congestion. “Traffic management has been a top priority in the planning process,” Romo said. “We’ve collaborated with local transportation authorities to enhance road infrastructure, add traffic signals and design efficient access points. Additionally, pedestrian pathways and bike-friendly routes are being incorporated to reduce reliance on vehicles within the development.”
While Centurion American has undertaken hundreds of projects, this one is truly unique. “The Collin Creek project stands out for its scale and complexity, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, including green spaces, pedestrian-friendly designs and environmentally conscious construction practices,” Romo said.
While some may be ready to leave behind their neon colors and Cyndi Lauper ballads, others may find joy in reviving those memories at the new and improved Collin Creek. Exciting times lie ahead for Plano.
For more information, visit collincreek.com.
This project is not just about creating something new; it’s about reimagining a beloved
landmark while preserving its sentimental value.