The city of Plano is piloting night construction work with an arterial concrete project along Park Boulevard starting at the end of July.

The gist: The first phase of a $3.19 million project is expected to last until mid-September.

Drew Zaeske, the public works community investment program manager at Plano, said the first phase will involve replacing concrete pavement panels from Preston Road to Ohio Drive at night to avoid daytime roadway disruptions. Only the first phase of the project is planned for night work as of July.

A new boutique hotel is opening in the Legacy District in October 2027.

The gist: The Miyako Hybrid Hotel is a 217-room facility with meeting and event space and a contemporary ballroom. The Hotel’s amenities can be used for conferences, meetings, weddings, galas and private events according to a city news release.

Denton residents could get a new McDonald’s, a second Walmart could be in store for Celina and a road running through Grapevine and Southlake is slated for repairs.

Check out six trending stories across Community Impact’s Dallas-Fort Worth coverage areas.

1. New McDonald's under construction on Loop 288 in Denton

2. Celina council approves incentive agreement for city’s 2nd Walmart

3. Grapevine council approves interlocal agreement for $230K road project

4. Crunch Fitness to debut McKinney location at the end of July

5. Patty Lou’s Smashburgers now open in downtown Plano

6. The Purrrfect Lounge to offer luxury cat boarding in McKinney

Gov. Greg Abbott named Robert S. Howden, one of his senior advisers and his office's legislative director, as Texas' 116th secretary of state effective July 18. Howden will succeed Secretary of State Jane Nelson, who resigned effective July 17 more than three years after she took office.

As the state's chief elections officer, Howden will be responsible for overseeing the application of Texas election laws and assisting local election officials. The secretary of state's office also manages business records, government rules and regulations, and other official duties.

Following Abbott's appointment, Howden must be confirmed for the position by at least two-thirds of the Texas Senate. The state Legislature's next regular session will begin in January.