For years, Allen residents have looked at the city’s quiet downtown and asked the same question: What’s next? Now, with a long-range vision shaped by community voices and civic leaders alike, the answer is finally taking shape — starting with a familiar landmark.
What To Expect
At the corner of Allen Drive and McDermott, the city’s historic fire station is preparing for a second act. This time, instead of fire trucks, it will host rooftop patios, café-style seating and the hum of live music.
The Allen Economic Development Corporation (EDC), in partnership with the city council, community development corporation and downtown design review board, is leading the charge to transform the building into a one-of-a-kind dining destination — one that embraces Allen’s past while igniting its future.
Construction on the fire station project is expected to begin by late 2025. While no specific restaurant tenant has been named yet, the vision is clear: a walkable, welcoming space where people can gather, dine and connect. It’s the first of several major moves outlined in the Downtown Allen Revitalization Plan.
Downtown Revitalization Plans
The plan, adopted by Allen City Council in 2022, was the result of over a year of collaborative work. It began with the formation of the Downtown Steering Committee in June 2021, a group of resident volunteers who worked closely with city staff to shape a future rooted in Allen’s unique history. Through workshops, surveys, public meetings and events, they captured the hopes of residents and translated them into a comprehensive framework for renewal.
In recognition of its approach, the Texas Downtown Association named the Downtown Steering Committee a finalist for its 2022 Resiliency Award. But the impact goes well beyond accolades.
City leaders have since redefined Allen’s Central Business District as the Downtown District, laying out clear zoning and design standards to guide future development. A new Downtown Design Review Board now helps ensure that changes align with the community’s vision, while preserving cultural landmarks — such as the fire station — and encouraging thoughtful growth.
More Plans For Downtown Allen
The City of Allen and the Allen EDC are jointly acquiring seven acres at the northeast corner of US 75 and West Main Street. The recent $7.8 million purchase, backed by the Downtown TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Zone No. 2, will reserve the land for future commercial development, including new entertainment and retail options. The agreement also funds $1.6 million in infrastructure work — from road reconstruction to clearing out deteriorated structures — preparing the area for new possibilities.
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