After Prosper voters rejected a bond proposition for a new public works and parks service center, Prosper Town Council approved just under $23 million in funding to move forward with a scaled-back version of the facility.

What it means: At their Dec. 9 meeting, council members approved a $22.99 million construction contract with Byrne Construction for the administration building. Director of Public Works Carrie Jones said town staff worked with Byrne to scale back the project after the 2025 bond election, reducing features and “shelling” portions of the building to fit available funding. 

Zooming out: Mayor Pro Tem Amy Bartley said the town will work to identify funding over the next several years to complete remaining components of the service center originally planned to be paid for by the bond funding, such as the shop and covered storage, using capital dedicated funds or alternate bids. Mayor David Bristol said previously that of the failed propositions, the public works service center is his top priority.

A new multifamily development in Celina is moving forward with the help of $23.5 million in clean energy financing, according to a Lone Star PACE news release.

The details: Jefferson Ownsby, a 436-unit apartment community planned off Preston Road, will be located at 317 E. Ownsby Parkway and is being developed by JPI, according to the release. Lone Star PACE, an administrator for commercial property assessed clean energy financing, helped facilitate the funding to support energy and water saving efficiency for the complex. 

What it means: Planned upgrades include high-efficiency windows, enhanced wall and roof insulation, LED lighting and upgraded HVAC systems, according to the release. The four-building complex is expected to feature amenities such as a pool, fitness center, dog park and a standalone clubhouse, according to the apartment community’s website.

Quote of note: “For fast-growing communities like Celina, it’s a tool that helps ensure new projects are built with efficiency and sustainability in mind,” Lone Star PACE President Lee McCormick said in the release.

• 317 E. Ownsby Parkway, Celina

Portillo’s broke ground on its first Frisco location on Dec. 11, according to a company news release. The restaurant, which will be located on the northwest corner of Gordon Heights Lane and FM 423, is slated to open in 2026.

On the menu
A variety of Portillo’s signature menu items will be available at the new Frisco location, including Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.

• Northwest corner of Gordon Heights Lane and FM 423, Frisco