The burgeoning landscape of Collin County continues to evolve, with new residential and mixed-use developments consistently pushing the boundaries of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex further north. This expansion signals a pivotal shift, drawing cities like Sherman and Anna closer into the orbit of one of the nation’s fastest-growing urban centers. While some might deem the idea of Sherman becoming fully integrated extreme, the undeniable surge of development along the U.S. 75 corridor, heading towards the Red River, paints a clear picture of relentless growth and opportunity.
In a landmark move, Centurion American Development Group, a name synonymous with visionary master-planned communities across North Texas, recently broke ground for The Villages of Hurricane Creek. This ambitious mixed-use project is strategically located just off U.S. 75 in Anna, a city experiencing an unprecedented boom. Upon its full realization, this expansive development is projected to feature 984 meticulously designed single-family homes and accommodate 400 multi-family residents, offering a diverse array of housing options to meet the region’s escalating demand.
Centurion American, headquartered in Farmers Branch, brings a wealth of experience and a sterling reputation, having successfully developed over 120 master-planned communities throughout the DFW area. Their impressive portfolio includes well-known projects such as The Bridges at Preston Crossing in nearby Gunter and Chalk Hill in Celina, both of which have set benchmarks for quality and community design. Their expertise ensures that The Villages of Hurricane Creek will not only provide housing but will also foster a vibrant, self-sustaining community.
The construction of this multi-phase project will be spearheaded by an esteemed trio of homebuilders: Beazer Homes, First Texas Homes, and Mettamy Homes. These industry leaders will craft a variety of housing styles, including charming one- and two-story single-family residences, comfortable garden homes, and modern townhomes. This diverse offering is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of homebuyers, from first-time buyers and growing families to empty-nesters seeking a more manageable lifestyle. Homes are currently available for purchase, with competitive pricing beginning in the low $400,000s, presenting an attractive entry point into the dynamic Collin County real estate market. Future residents will benefit from enrollment in the highly regarded Anna Independent School District, a key draw for families relocating to the area.
Significantly, The Villages of Hurricane Creek marks a historic milestone for Anna, as it represents the city’s inaugural development situated on the west side of U.S. 75. This strategic positioning is poised to redefine Anna’s urban footprint and catalyze further growth in a previously underdeveloped quadrant of the city.
Mehrdad Moayedi, president and CEO of Centurion American, articulated the company’s enthusiasm in a recent press release, stating, “We’re excited to break ground on The Villages of Hurricane Creek, which is the first development on the west side of U.S. Highway 75 in Anna. This project embodies our commitment to creating exceptional living spaces and fostering thriving communities.” This sentiment was echoed by Anna mayor Nate Pike, who underscored the development’s significance for the city’s future: “As the centerpiece of Anna’s west side, The Villages of Hurricane Creek leverages our ideal location in northern Collin County to draw a diverse mix of residents from throughout the region and meet the needs of our rapidly growing community.”
Anna’s rapid ascent as a residential hotbed is not merely anecdotal; according to the U.S. Census Bureau, it proudly stands as one of the five fastest-growing cities in all of North Texas. This explosive growth is driven by several factors, including its strategic location, relative affordability compared to more established DFW suburbs, excellent school systems, and a welcoming community atmosphere. The Villages of Hurricane Creek is perfectly poised to capitalize on these trends, offering modern homes and amenities to an ever-expanding population.
The initial phase of construction commenced earlier this year, focusing on establishing crucial infrastructure and an inviting amenity center. Upon its ultimate completion, The Villages of Hurricane Creek promises a holistic lifestyle, distinguished by vast green spaces, meandering creeks, tranquil ponds, and an extensive network of trails ideal for walking and cycling. Residents will enjoy signature water features, expansive open spaces for recreation, scenic lookouts, and meticulously designed park areas. Beyond the residential offerings, the mixed-use component of the development is envisioned to include a vibrant commercial hub. This area holds the potential for diverse restaurants, a variety of retail establishments catering to daily needs and leisure, and notably, Anna’s first full-service hotel, further solidifying the community’s self-sufficiency and appeal as a destination.
Eden Town Square: Innovative Single-Family Rentals in Hurst
The evolving preferences in housing across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex are giving rise to innovative residential models, and Eden Town Square in Hurst is a prime example. Arlington-based ECM Development, a forward-thinking player in the North Texas real estate scene, has unveiled ambitious plans to construct 67 state-of-the-art single-family rental homes, each boasting integrated smart home technology. This development addresses a growing niche in the market for individuals and families seeking the comfort and privacy of a standalone home without the long-term commitment and maintenance responsibilities of homeownership.
The Hurst City Council demonstrated its progressive stance by approving a crucial zoning change request, paving the way for ECM Development to submit detailed site plans for Eden Town Square. The project is slated for a five-acre parcel strategically located off Bedford-Euless Road in Hurst, an area celebrated for its central position within the DFW Mid-Cities and its excellent accessibility to major employment centers, retail destinations, and recreational facilities. Hurst offers residents a balanced lifestyle, combining suburban tranquility with urban conveniences, making it an ideal location for this type of modern rental community.
T.J. Moore, President of ECM Development, provided valuable insights to the city council regarding the project’s carefully defined target audience. He highlighted that Eden Town Square is designed to appeal to two key demographics: millennials deeply engaged in their professions who prioritize flexibility and modern amenities, and empty-nesters seeking a low-maintenance, comfortable home environment. This strategic focus ensures that the homes and community features are meticulously tailored to meet the specific needs and desires of these discerning renters.
A cornerstone of the Eden Town Square experience will be its advanced smart home technology. Each residence will be equipped with an intuitive touch screen system, providing seamless access to a suite of virtual smart-home services. This includes features like intelligent climate control, automated lighting, secure keyless entry, remote monitoring capabilities, and potentially even smart appliance integration. This technological edge not only offers unparalleled convenience and energy efficiency but also caters to the tech-savvy preferences of modern renters, making daily living simpler and more connected.
The rental rates for these premium single-family homes are structured to offer competitive value within the DFW rental market. Moore indicated that rents would commence at approximately $1,450 for a one-bedroom home, providing an accessible entry point. Two-bedroom units are projected at around $2,161, while the more spacious three-bedroom units would be available for approximately $2,400. Beyond the technology, the homes themselves boast impressive architectural details designed for comfort and luxury, featuring soaring 10-foot ceilings and grand 8-foot doors, which amplify the sense of space and natural light within each unit. This attention to design creates an elevated living experience, setting Eden Town Square apart from typical rental properties.
The proposed development plan includes a thoughtful distribution of units to cater to various household sizes and needs: 18 one-bedroom units, 23 two-bedroom units, and 26 three-bedroom units. Practical considerations for residents have also been integrated, with ample open parking available and the convenience of enclosed garages provided for some units, adding to the appeal and functionality of the community. Eden Town Square represents a forward-thinking approach to housing, blending the independence of single-family living with the ease and innovation of modern rental communities in a highly desirable DFW location. Learn more about the Hurst City Council’s decision here.
The Mill Old Town: Revitalizing Lewisville’s Historic Core with New Apartments
Lewisville, a city celebrated for its rich history and vibrant community spirit, is on the cusp of a significant transformation within its cherished downtown area. An entity affiliated with J Street Companies, a distinguished real estate firm based in Washington D.C., has put forth a compelling proposal for the development of The Mill Old Town, an upscale 213-unit apartment complex. This project is poised to inject new life and residential density into Lewisville’s historic core, attracting a diverse array of residents seeking an authentic urban living experience intertwined with local charm.
The chosen location for this exciting development is 535 S. Mill St., strategically positioned just south of Lewisville’s iconic historic downtown area. This prime placement ensures that future residents will enjoy unparalleled access to the unique boutiques, local eateries, cultural attractions, and community events that define Lewisville’s revitalized urban center. This focus on walkable, community-centric living aligns perfectly with contemporary demographic trends, where residents increasingly value convenience, accessibility, and a strong sense of place. The project’s details have garnered significant attention from prominent local media outlets, including The Dallas Morning News and the Dallas Business Journal, underscoring its importance to the regional development landscape.
With an estimated cost of $36 million, The Mill Old Town represents a substantial investment in Lewisville’s future. The development is projected to reach completion by early summer 2023, bringing a fresh wave of modern housing options to meet the area’s robust demand. J Street Companies, known for its extensive experience in urban residential development, particularly evident in its online portfolio showcasing seven sophisticated apartment complexes in the highly competitive D.C. market, brings a proven track record of delivering quality and aesthetically pleasing projects. Their expertise is crucial in ensuring that The Mill Old Town not only provides housing but also enhances the architectural fabric of Lewisville.
The design of The Mill Old Town is entrusted to Architecture Demarest, a respected firm known for its innovative and contextually sensitive architectural solutions. The expectation is that the design will skillfully blend contemporary aesthetics with elements that complement the existing historic character of downtown Lewisville, ensuring that the new complex feels integrated and harmonious with its surroundings. This thoughtful approach to design is critical for developments situated in historically significant areas, fostering both progress and preservation.
Groundbreaking for The Mill Old Town is anticipated to commence early next year, marking the beginning of a transformative project for Lewisville. Once completed, the 213 units will offer a variety of floor plans and modern amenities designed to cater to a diverse resident base, including young professionals, families, and empty-nesters drawn to the allure of urban living. Residents can anticipate features commonly found in premier apartment communities, such as state-of-the-art fitness centers, chic communal lounges, co-working spaces, and perhaps even a resort-style pool or dedicated pet amenities. The complex will not only provide housing but also contribute significantly to the economic vitality of downtown Lewisville by increasing foot traffic for local businesses, fostering a more vibrant street life, and generating additional tax revenue for the city. The Mill Old Town stands as a testament to Lewisville’s ongoing growth and its commitment to creating dynamic, attractive living environments that honor its past while embracing its future.