New features include the city’s first lighted and shaded basketball court in a neighborhood park

McKINNEY, Texas (July 23, 2021) – The City of McKinney will celebrate the completion of a $3.175 million renovation to Cottonwood Park, 212 McMakin St., as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to preserve and redevelop areas on the east side of McKinney.

“Cottonwood Park was close to vibrant neighborhoods and schools, but it was underutilized because of outdated equipment. We wanted to make this place special for the community and bring a wow factor to this park, including the first basketball court in a neighborhood park with a shade structure and lighting, increasing the opportunities to use the facilities into the evening hours,” said Michael Kowski, Director of Parks and Recreation. “We have already seen a significant increase in the number of people visiting and using the park, which makes us very happy.”

Cottonwood Park was one of 10 parks recommended in the 2017 Parks Master Plan identified for renovation. Funding for the project came from parkland dedication fees as well as through the McKinney Community Development Corporation.

As part of the renovation, the park now includes two pavilions, shaded basketball court and play equipment for various ages, a splash feature, additional parking, food truck outlets, pedestrian walkways around the park, and additional landscaping and lighting.

The community is invited to celebrate the park additions Saturday, July 24, with a party, including a D.J. and food trucks from 6:00 p.m. to dusk. Residents can bring lawn chairs and blankets to the event, which will also feature a screening of “Raya and the Last Dragon.”

The City of McKinney has celebrated Parks and Recreation Month throughout July, with events marking the openings of Old Settler’s Recreation Center and the Senior Recreation Center, which both received extension renovations. The Parks and Recreation Department will hold Hawaiian Night at Juanita Maxfield Aquatic Center from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, July 31.  

For more information, visit www.mckinneytexas.org/parks.

About McKinney

McKinney, Texas, is unique by nature. As one of the fastest-growing cities in America, McKinney has a current population of nearly 200,000 and serves as the county seat for Collin County. McKinney offers award-winning schools, a vibrant historic downtown, and cultural district, diverse housing options, a trendy culinary scene, and a uniquely beautiful natural setting with rolling hills and lush trees. The city is home to the top-rated McKinney National Airport and serves as the headquarters to many Fortune 500 companies and a burgeoning set of cutting-edge technology companies. McKinney offers the perfect mix for successful business development: a highly educated workforce, availability of land for expansion, convenient location to the DFW area and a nationally-acclaimed quality of life. To learn more about the City of McKinney, visit www.mckinneytexas.org.