On July 18, 2025, McKinney National Airport held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new commercial passenger terminal, signaling a major shift for the airport and the North Texas region. This event marks the start of construction on a project that has sparked years of debate, community concern, and political discussion. The new terminal aims to transform McKinney Airport from a general aviation facility into a full commercial service airport, promising new travel options, economic growth, and changes for local residents and businesses.
A New Era Begins: The Groundbreaking Ceremony
The groundbreaking ceremony at McKinney Airport brought together city leaders, state officials, and community members. Mayor Bill Cox, who took office in June 2025, called the project a “strategic investment in North Texas’s future.” He explained, “This new terminal is about meeting the needs of our growing region and making sure McKinney stays competitive.” Airport Director Ken Carley echoed this, saying the expansion “sets the stage for the next chapter in our city’s aviation story.”
The ceremony itself was more than just a photo opportunity. It represented the end of a long planning phase and the start of real construction. The new commercial passenger terminal will cover between 46,000 and 46,600 square feet and will open with four gates, with the ability to expand to six as demand grows. City officials expect the terminal to be ready for commercial flights by late 2026.
Project Scope, Timeline, and Facilities
The McKinney Airport expansion is a large and complex project. Here are some of the key features:
- Terminal Size: 46,000–46,600 square feet
- Gates: Four at opening, expandable to six
- Parking: 980 spaces at first, with plans to grow to 1,450 spaces
- Amenities: Modern waiting areas, food and beverage concessions, and rental car facilities
- Passenger Capacity: 200,000 travelers per year at launch, with room to serve over one million annually after future expansions
Construction is already underway, with Swinerton serving as the construction manager and Garver handling engineering. The city expects the terminal to be finished and ready for commercial flights by late 2026.
Funding: A Creative Approach After Voter Rejection
One of the most talked-about aspects of the McKinney Airport expansion is how it’s being paid for. The total cost is estimated between $72 million and $79 million. Funding comes from several sources:
- $14.8 million grant from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Secured in June 2025 as part of the state’s two-year budget.
- Sales tax revenue bonds: Issued by the McKinney Economic Development Corporation.
- Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) funds: Money set aside from increased property values in certain areas.
- $30 million from the McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC): A major local investment.
Importantly, no property tax increases or general obligation bonds are being used. This decision came after McKinney voters rejected a $200 million bond proposal for the project in 2023. City leaders responded by finding other ways to pay for the terminal, hoping to respect voter concerns about taxes and government debt.
Angela Richardson-Woods, chair of the MCDC, explained, “We wanted to support a project that fits our city’s vision for innovation and community focus, without putting extra pressure on taxpayers.” This approach has allowed the project to move forward, but it has also raised questions about transparency and public input.
Political Debate and Community Response
The McKinney Airport expansion has not been without controversy. Many residents have voiced concerns about the cost, the need for commercial service, and the way the project is being funded. In both 2022 and 2023, voters rejected bond measures that would have paid for the terminal through property taxes. Some critics call the project a “boondoggle,” arguing that it risks public funds and may not deliver the promised benefits.
The airport expansion became a central issue in the 2025 mayoral race. Some candidates and residents called for a pause or a new vote, saying the city should listen more closely to the community. Despite these concerns, city officials pressed ahead, using alternative funding sources that did not require direct voter approval.
Supporters of the project, including Mayor Cox and state lawmakers like Senator Angela Paxton and Representative Jeff Leach, argue that the terminal is needed to keep up with North Texas’s rapid growth. They point to the region’s booming population and business activity as reasons why McKinney needs its own commercial airport. Senator Ted Cruz also supported the project, linking it to broader efforts to create jobs and boost the economy.
Economic Impact and Regional Mobility
The economic stakes for the McKinney Airport expansion are high. The airport already generates more than $299 million each year for the region. City leaders believe the new terminal will push that number to $400 million annually by creating jobs, attracting tourists, and supporting local businesses.
The terminal is also expected to improve travel options for North Texas residents. Right now, most people in the area use Dallas-Fort Worth International or Dallas Love Field, both of which can be crowded and far from home for many. The new commercial passenger terminal at McKinney Airport promises a more convenient alternative, with shorter travel times and, possibly, lower airfares.
National airlines have shown interest in launching service from McKinney since 2019. The city is actively talking with carriers about future routes, though no specific airlines or destinations have been announced yet. As reported by VisaVerge.com, these negotiations are ongoing, and more details are expected as the terminal nears completion.
Step-by-Step Timeline: How the Project Came Together
The journey to the McKinney Airport groundbreaking ceremony took several years and involved many steps:
- Planning and Design (2019–2025): City officials, engineers, and community members worked together to design the terminal and plan for future growth. This phase included public meetings, studies, and debates about funding.
- Funding Secured (2024–2025): After voters rejected bond proposals, city leaders secured a state grant, local economic development funds, and sales tax revenue bonds.
- Groundbreaking (July 18, 2025): The official start of construction, celebrated with a public ceremony.
- Construction (2025–2026): Swinerton and Garver began building the terminal, parking lots, and supporting infrastructure.
- Completion and Launch (Late 2026): The terminal is expected to open for commercial flights, with room to grow as demand increases.
Planning and Design phase begins
Funding secured after bond proposals rejected
Groundbreaking ceremony held
Construction begins
Terminal expected to open for commercial flights
Key Stakeholders: Who’s Involved?
Several groups and individuals have played important roles in the McKinney Airport expansion:
- City of McKinney: Leads the project and manages the airport.
- Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Provided a major grant.
- McKinney Economic Development Corporation: Issued sales tax revenue bonds.
- McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC): Invested $30 million.
- State Lawmakers: Senator Angela Paxton and Representative Jeff Leach helped secure state funding.
- Senator Ted Cruz: Supported the project as part of FAA reauthorization efforts.
- Construction and Engineering Firms: Swinerton (construction manager) and Garver (engineering).
Facilities and Passenger Experience
When the new commercial passenger terminal opens, travelers can expect a modern, comfortable experience. The terminal will have:
- Spacious waiting areas with natural light
- Food and beverage concessions for snacks and meals
- Rental car counters for easy ground transportation
- Four gates at first, with the ability to add two more as the airport grows
- A large parking lot with nearly 1,000 spaces, expandable to 1,450
The airport’s initial capacity is 200,000 passengers per year, but the design allows for quick expansion to serve over one million travelers annually. This flexibility is important as North Texas continues to grow.
Community Concerns and Ongoing Debate
Despite the excitement from city leaders and business groups, some McKinney residents remain skeptical. Critics worry about noise, traffic, and the impact on nearby neighborhoods. Others question whether the airport will attract enough airlines and passengers to justify the cost.
Some residents are also unhappy with the way the project was funded. They argue that by using sales tax bonds and other sources, city officials avoided direct voter approval. This has led to calls for more transparency and public input as the project moves forward.
City officials say they are listening to these concerns. Mayor Cox has promised regular updates and public meetings to keep the community informed. The city also plans to track the airport’s economic impact and passenger numbers to make sure the project delivers on its promises.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for McKinney Airport?
The next big milestone will be the completion of the terminal and the start of commercial flights in late 2026. In the meantime, the city will continue to negotiate with airlines and prepare for the launch of new routes. Officials hope to announce specific airlines and destinations closer to the opening date.
The airport’s success will depend on several factors:
- Airline Partnerships: Securing regular service from national carriers is key to attracting passengers and making the terminal a success.
- Economic Growth: The airport’s impact on jobs, tourism, and local business will be closely watched by city leaders and residents.
- Community Support: Ongoing communication and transparency will be important to address concerns and build trust.
Practical Guidance for Residents and Travelers
For those interested in the latest updates or who have questions about the project, the City of McKinney provides detailed information on its official website. The airport’s own site, FlyTKI.com, offers news, construction updates, and contact details for the airport administration.
Residents who want to share feedback or learn more about the funding and planning process can attend city council meetings or reach out to the McKinney Community Development Corporation. The city has promised to keep the public involved as the project moves forward.
Official Government Resources
For those seeking more information about airport development and funding in Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation Aviation Division provides resources on state grants, airport planning, and project guidelines.
Summary Table: McKinney National Airport Expansion (2025)
| Feature | Details (as of July 21, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Groundbreaking Date | July 18, 2025 |
| Terminal Size | 46,000–46,600 sq. ft. |
| Gates | 4 (expandable to 6) |
| Parking | 980 spaces (expandable to 1,450) |
| Initial Passenger Capacity | 200,000/year (expandable to 1 million+) |
| Total Project Cost | $72–$79 million |
| Funding Sources | State grant, sales tax bonds, TIRZ, MCDC |
| Commercial Flights Begin | Late 2026 (projected) |
| Key Stakeholders | City of McKinney, TxDOT, MCDC, airlines |
| Main Controversy | Voter opposition to bond funding |
Conclusion: A Turning Point for North Texas
The McKinney Airport expansion is a bold step for the city and the region. The new commercial passenger terminal promises to bring more travel options, jobs, and economic growth to North Texas. At the same time, it raises important questions about public input, funding, and the balance between progress and community values.
As construction moves forward, the eyes of residents, business leaders, and travelers will be on McKinney Airport. The project’s success will depend on strong partnerships, careful planning, and ongoing dialogue with the community. For now, the groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of a new chapter—one that could reshape the way North Texas flies for years to come.
Learn Today
Groundbreaking Ceremony → Event marking the official start of construction for a major project or building.
Terminal → A building at an airport where passengers board and disembark from aircraft.
Sales Tax Revenue Bonds → Bonds repaid using revenue from sales taxes rather than property taxes.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) → A designated area where increased property tax revenue funds public improvements.
McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC) → Local organization investing in community development projects like the airport terminal.
This Article in a Nutshell
McKinney National Airport began constructing a modern 46,000 sq. ft. commercial terminal in 2025, aiming to increase regional travel options. Funded innovatively without tax hikes, the project promises economic growth and convenience for North Texas. The terminal will open in late 2026, marking a pivotal shift for McKinney and its residents.
— By VisaVerge.com
