Title
Conduct a Public Hearing and Consider/Discuss/Act on an Application Submitted by McKinney Main Street and the Historic Downtown McKinney Cultural District (#20-07) in the Amount of Sixty-Six Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($66,000.00) for the Purchase of “Better Block in a Box”, a Project that Includes All Elements for Placemaking and Pop-Up Events and Activities. Amount Requested Represents 93% of Total Project Cost.
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: Enhance Quality of Life in McKinney
Direction for Strategic and Economic Growth
MEETING DATE: May 28, 2020
DEPARTMENT: McKinney Community Development Corporation
CONTACT: Cindy Schneible, President
ITEM SUMMARY:
• McKinney Main Street and the Historic Downtown McKinney Cultural District are requesting a grant in the amount of $66,000 for the purchase of “Better Block in a Box” to facilitate placemaking and pop-up events in Historic Downtown McKinney and other locations in the community.
• Better Block in a Box has multiple elements needed for a placemaking event assembled into one shipping container.
• Elements can include tables and seating, lighting, shade structure and activities for people of all ages.
• The elements are packaged together, organized into a shipping container for easy set-up.
• When empty, the container can become a bar, check-in kiosk or inside gallery.
• Project goals include encouraging community involvement; strengthening the local economy, test new ideas for and demonstrate the value of pedestrian spaces.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• The Historic Downtown Cultural District has been the heart of the community since 1848.
• The District attracts citizens and visitors for shopping, dining and arts through a variety of independently owned shops and restaurants; events like McKinney Oktoberfest, Arts in Bloom and the July 4th Hometown Parade; and through strong support and preservation of the historic features that influence economic vitality.
• The District is home to more than 120 independently owned businesses; a creative community that helps shape the look and feel of the area; and acclaimed chefs and restaurants that have created a food destination.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• MCDC has allocated $1,563,985 to fund community projects eligible for consideration under sections 501 to 505 of the Texas Local Government Code in FY 20.
• Total project cost is estimated at $71,000. Amount requested from MCDC represents 93% of the total project cost.