The proposed Frisco Center for the Arts (FCFA) could transform the city's cultural and artistic landscape. However, its future depends on voter support.
During a Feb. 4, 2025 meeting, the Frisco City Council voted to place two propositions on the May 3 ballot. If approved, the measures would fund the project without raising the city’s property tax rate. These propositions aim to bring major productions to the city and provide performance spaces for Prosper ISD students.
With the center, Frisco could become a destination for first-run Broadway shows if the proposed plans move forward. With a seating capacity designed to accommodate large-scale productions, the center aims to attract top-tier Broadway tours that have previously bypassed the area.
What’s Expected From Voters
To bring the center to life, Frisco voters must approve two measures that would secure nearly half of the estimated $300 to $340 million in construction costs.
The first proposition seeks voter approval for the Economic Development Corporation to allocate sales and use tax revenue — rather than property taxes — toward a city-owned performing arts facility. The second proposition asks voters to authorize the city to issue up to $160 million in bonds to help fund the FCFA.
“We have sales tax revenue that voters voted back in the 90s,” Frisco Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Tammy Meinershagen previously told Local Profile. “Frisco allocates one penny of every sales tax dollar, splitting it between the economic development corporation and the community development corporation. These funds continue to grow, enabling us to complete major projects without Frisco residents paying a dime.”
Neither proposition directly approves the FCFA but would secure potential funding for the project. A final city council vote on the center itself is expected after the May 3 election.
What The FCFA Would Mean For Frisco
The proposed design features a 2,800-seat performance hall capable of hosting Broadway shows, large touring productions, and community events. According to Meinershagen, a letter of intent has been finalized with Broadway Across America — the organization behind hits like Wicked, The Lion King and Hamilton — in partnership with Broadway Dallas.
"It’s not a competition with Dallas; rather, we’ll call it 'co-opetition,' working together,” Meinershagen said. “Broadway Across America in New York will decide which shows come to which location."
Plans also include a smaller 300- to 400-seat community hall, primarily for Prosper ISD and local events. Additional amenities such as rehearsal spaces, visual arts areas, and support facilities aim to create a dynamic and versatile arts venue.
While a location is not secure, Meinershagen told Local Profile the FCFA must be situated within both the city and Prosper ISD boundaries due to the district providing $100 million in funds. The city owns a parcel of land near Highway 380, situated in the northern quadrant, closer to Universal and the PGA that would be in the boundaries of Prosper ISD.
Frisco City Council previously approved Pelli Clarke & Partners as the design architect for the project. Pelli will refine the design, including exterior renderings, site layout and club-level experiences, alongside Theatre Projects and Akustiks.
Make Your Voice Heard: Learn More About The FCFA
Frisco will host a virtual Q&A session on February 6, 2025, at 4 p.m. for residents to learn more about the center.
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