The McKinney City Council took a significant step towards enhancing local aviation infrastructure during their regular meeting on June 17, 2025, by approving an ordinance to amend the fiscal year 2025 budget. This amendment allocates funds for the second phase of the Taxiway Alpha rehabilitation project at McKinney Airport, a crucial development aimed at improving safety and efficiency at the facility.

Airport Director Ken Carly presented the details of the project, highlighting its importance due to increased traffic and the aging condition of existing taxiway pavement, which dates back to the late 1980s. The project, which is part of a larger $9.5 million initiative, will receive substantial financial support from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which has increased its grant funding commitment from $5.2 million to $7 million. The city will contribute a local match of $1.5 million, along with design costs of approximately $449,800, bringing the total project cost to about $8.95 million.

Carly emphasized the urgency of the project, noting that the existing pavement is deteriorating and requires immediate attention. The timeline for the project is set to begin with bidding in October, followed by construction starting in March 2026, with an estimated completion period of 12 months.

In addition to improving airport infrastructure, the project is expected to facilitate adjacent aeronautical development, which includes plans for new hangars and expanded operations by existing tenants. This development aligns with the city’s long-term vision for the airport, which has been outlined in its master plan since 2018.

The council also approved a resolution to award a design contract to Garver, the airport's engineering firm, and authorized the acceptance of the grant funding from TxDOT. These decisions mark a pivotal moment for McKinney Airport, positioning it for future growth and enhanced operational capabilities. The council's actions reflect a commitment to investing in local infrastructure that supports economic development and community needs.