Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on a Project Grant Application Submitted by Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary (4B25-11) in an Amount of Two Hundred Eleven Thousand One Hundred Sixty and NO/100 Dollars ($211,160.00) for Trail Improvements for Five Trails at The Property Located at One Nature Place in McKinney, Texas. This request represents 56% of the Total Project Cost.
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: 5: Enhance the Quality of Life in McKinney
5B: Create affordable recreational and cultural arts activities for all ages throughout the city.
5D: Develop sustainable quality of life improvements within
the City of McKinney.
MEETING DATE: May 22, 2025
DEPARTMENT: McKinney Community Development Corporation
CONTACT: Cindy Schneible, President
ITEM SUMMARY:
• McKinney Community Development Corporation will conduct a public hearing on a project grant application submitted by Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary for trail improvements at the museum site.
• Purpose of upgrades is to improve safety and accessibility, while reducing damage from flooding and erosion.
• Project elements include:
o Upgrading four trails with Flex-Fine Base, a powder variant that bonds to earth and creates a base layer which withstands moisture, tolerates heavy pedestrian traffic, and prevents holes and ruts on trails; and
o Paving the Laughlin Loop trail and adding switchback ramps to improve accessibility to exhibits and programs.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• Founded in 1967 by Miss Bess Heard, The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural science exploration center focused on interpreting the natural world for people of all ages.
• The mission of the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary is to bring nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, preserve and restore our priceless environment through:
o Educational programs emphasizing appreciation and conservation of nature;
o Preservation of a portion of North Texas land with its native vegetation and wildlife, in as near a natural condition as possible;
o Museum exhibits, examples of natural history, nature-related art works and memorabilia from Founder Bess Heard; and
o Indoor/outdoor nature experiences geared to all age and educational levels.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• Funds allocated for FY25 for discretionary Community, Economic Development and Pipeline Project grants total $7,459,257.
• The request is eligible for MCDC consideration under Section 505.152 of the Texas Local Government Code.
• The Heard most recently received MCDC in FY23 in an amount of $50,000 for a food storage facility and $30,000 in FY 22 for improvements to the ropes course.
SUPPORTING MATERIALS:
• Application Packet
• Presentation