Frisco, Texas, a city renowned for its rapid growth and economic vitality, is on the cusp of a transformative development. At the heart of this evolution lies Brinkmann Ranch, a historic 1,300-acre property deeply intertwined with Frisco’s past. For decades, this sprawling land, strategically situated at the southwest corner of Coit Road and Eldorado Parkway, has been a testament to equestrian excellence and a silent observer of the city’s northward expansion. Now, the venerable Brinkmann Ranch is shedding its pastoral skin to embrace a vibrant future, becoming home to an expansive mixed-use development that promises to reshape Frisco’s landscape with new housing, retail, and community amenities.
The ranch’s legacy is as rich and varied as the North Texas soil it sits upon. It gained national recognition for breeding award-winning halter horses, including the illustrious CK Kid, who clinched the 2003 AQHA World Champion title. Beyond its equestrian fame, Brinkmann Ranch also holds a unique place in television history, having served as a filming location for portions of the first five episodes of the iconic TV series “Dallas” in 1978. Before the infamous “Southfork Ranch” building burned down, scenes depicting the Cloyce Box Ranch were brought to life on this very land, cementing its place in popular culture. For years, the ranch, under the stewardship of figures like Baxter Brinkmann, resisted the relentless march of urbanization, a cherished expanse amidst a burgeoning city.
However, the irresistible forces of progress and opportunity have finally converged. Development has found its definitive path to Brinkmann Ranch, signaling a new chapter for this treasured Frisco landmark. The ambitious plan for this 1,300-acre site encompasses a holistic approach to community building, integrating residential and retail spaces designed to cater to Frisco’s growing population and evolving needs. This monumental project is set to enhance Frisco’s appeal as a premier destination for living, working, and leisure, further solidifying its reputation as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Lexington Village: A New Retail Hub for Frisco Residents
The commercial heart of this new development is already taking shape, promising unprecedented convenience and new economic opportunities for Frisco. Centergy Retail announced earlier this year that it has broken ground on a state-of-the-art 100,000-square-foot shopping center within the Brinkmann Ranch property. This significant retail anchor is meticulously designed to serve the burgeoning residential communities, becoming a central hub for daily necessities and lifestyle amenities.
Anchoring this expansive shopping center will be a brand-new Tom Thumb grocery store, spanning an impressive 58,000 square feet. This flagship supermarket is expected to provide a comprehensive selection of fresh produce, pantry staples, and specialty items, offering residents unparalleled convenience right at their doorstep. Complementing the grocery store, an additional 32,000 square feet of diverse retail shops will create a vibrant collection of local businesses and national brands. From boutique stores to essential services, these establishments are poised to cater to a wide array of consumer preferences. Furthermore, the development includes three strategically located pad sites, offering flexible opportunities for future restaurants, banks, or other service-oriented businesses to thrive. The rapid pace of construction suggests an early completion, with the entire shopping center estimated to open its doors to the public by August 2023, marking a significant milestone in the Brinkmann Ranch transformation.
Master-Planned Excellence: The Lexington Community
Beyond the retail vibrancy, Brinkmann Ranch is also giving rise to Lexington, a meticulously designed 600-acre master-planned community that embodies modern suburban living. Lexington Village, the retail component mentioned above, is strategically integrated to ensure residents have effortless access to shopping and dining. The residential development within Lexington is already making swift progress, with Landon Homes leading the charge. They have successfully completed the first phase of their contributions to the community and are actively progressing into the second phase, demonstrating strong market demand and efficient execution.
Upon its full build-out, the Lexington master-planned community is projected to feature an impressive 2,000 single-family homes, offering a diverse range of architectural styles and luxury finishes. These homes are designed to cater to discerning buyers, with prices expected to range from $500,000 to $1.5 million. This wide price spectrum ensures that Lexington will appeal to a broad demographic of homeowners seeking quality craftsmanship, modern amenities, and a desirable Frisco address. The vision for Lexington is to create a cohesive and amenity-rich environment where families can thrive, benefiting from thoughtfully designed streetscapes, green spaces, and a strong sense of community.
Upscale Apartments Coming to Brinkmann Ranch: Modern Multifamily Living
Further diversifying the residential offerings at Brinkmann Ranch, Trammell Crow Residential has initiated construction on a significant multifamily development. This ambitious project aims to introduce 2,200 apartment units, with the initial phase encompassing 600 units already underway. This substantial addition will contribute to the housing density of the area, providing approximately eight residential units per acre across the Lexington development. The inclusion of high-quality multifamily housing is critical for accommodating Frisco’s dynamic population growth, offering diverse living options for individuals and families who desire the convenience and amenities of apartment living within a vibrant master-planned setting.
The decision to develop this prime real estate was a carefully considered one, as West Miller, president of Centergy Retail, recounted. Baxter Brinkmann, the former owner, had initially declared his intention “never to sell” the land that had been in his family for generations. However, recognizing the immense potential and the pressing need for development in Frisco, he eventually made the strategic decision to sell a significant 600-acre portion of the site. Miller aptly described the land as “an infill piece that was ready for development and needed development,” underscoring its readiness for transformation into a thriving community. He further emphasized the unparalleled value of this location, stating that the land is “one of the top pieces of real estate in DFW” from both a density and income perspective. This assessment reflects Frisco’s magnetic pull, with people and businesses flocking to the city, creating an urgent demand for premium residential and commercial spaces.
Miller highlighted a crucial aspect of the development’s planning: the original development agreement, forged in 2002, allows for a remarkable eight residential units per acre, and specifically, 2,200 units on just 100 acres designated for multi-family zoning. In total, he elaborated, this translates to 23 units per acre for the multi-family component. He unequivocally stated that such high-density zoning for this particular land parcel “will never be approved again,” making this development a truly unique opportunity. This legacy zoning provides developers with a distinct advantage, enabling them to deliver a product and a living experience that would be challenging, if not impossible, to replicate under current zoning regulations. Furthermore, Miller pointed out that the combination of single-family homes and high-density apartments will make this area one of the densest, yet thoughtfully planned, communities in Frisco, all while dedicating 15 acres specifically to retail spaces to serve the new residents.
“We’re very fortunate we’re the ones the musical chairs landed on,” Miller remarked, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to develop such a strategically important and highly sought-after parcel of land in Frisco. This sentiment was echoed by Matt Enzler, Senior Managing Director at Trammell Crow, who also emphasized the invaluable nature of the legacy zoning. He explained that this existing zoning for multifamily housing allows developers to create a residential product that would simply be unattainable under contemporary regulations, providing an exceptional advantage in terms of scale and scope for the Brinkmann Ranch project.
Unrivaled Amenities: A Lifestyle Redefined
The multifamily development by Trammell Crow is not just about units; it’s about curating an elevated lifestyle. Enzler detailed the impressive array of amenities planned for residents. Central to the community will be a magnificent 6-acre central park, designed as a verdant oasis for relaxation, recreation, and community gatherings. This expansive green space will provide residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from morning strolls to afternoon picnics. Complementing the park, a sprawling 20,000-square-foot resort-style amenities area promises an unparalleled living experience. This grand facility will feature “the biggest fitness centers” Trammell Crow has ever constructed, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and dedicated spaces for various wellness activities. Beyond the fitness center, residents can anticipate a host of other luxurious amenities, including potentially lavish pools, communal lounges, co-working spaces, and entertainment areas, all designed to foster a vibrant and interactive community atmosphere.
Adding to the allure of the development, 100 acres of dedicated trails will weave throughout the property, providing residents with extensive pathways for walking, jogging, and cycling. These trails will offer picturesque views and opportunities for residents to connect with nature, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle right within their community. Enzler confirmed that work on the property commenced in January, with an optimistic timeline for residents to move into the first units by the summer of 2024. This swift progress underscores the commitment of the developers to bring this visionary project to fruition efficiently.
Enzler reflected on the long-term perspective of the project, acknowledging that this prime land “should have been developed” sooner as Frisco’s growth surged northward over the years. However, he expressed profound satisfaction and gratitude for being part of the team responsible for developing this significant project now. The Brinkmann Ranch development represents more than just new buildings; it embodies a strategic and thoughtful response to Frisco’s explosive growth, aiming to create a harmonious balance between modern amenities, community connectivity, and the preservation of green spaces. It’s a testament to Frisco’s ongoing transformation into a leading urban center, offering a diverse array of housing, robust retail options, and an exceptional quality of life for its residents.
Frisco’s Future: A Seamless Blend of History and Progress
The transformation of Brinkmann Ranch into a dynamic mixed-use destination is a powerful symbol of Frisco’s forward trajectory. By integrating its rich history with modern urban planning, Frisco is creating a community that honors its past while embracing a vibrant future. This development addresses critical needs for housing and retail infrastructure, driven by Frisco’s magnetic appeal as a hub for economic opportunity and quality of life in North Texas. The meticulous planning, from the diverse housing options ranging from luxury single-family homes to upscale apartments, to the comprehensive retail and unparalleled amenities, reflects a commitment to sustainable growth and community well-being.
As the construction progresses and new residents begin to call Brinkmann Ranch home, the area will not only see an increase in population but also a bolstering of its local economy through job creation and enhanced services. The strategic location, combined with the thoughtful design of Lexington and its associated retail and multifamily components, positions Brinkmann Ranch as a cornerstone of Frisco’s continued evolution. It will serve as a shining example of how a city can successfully manage rapid expansion, creating cohesive, amenity-rich communities that cater to the diverse needs of its residents. The legacy of Brinkmann Ranch, once defined by its equestrian prowess and television fame, is now gracefully transitioning to a new era, becoming a vibrant, modern testament to Frisco’s enduring spirit of progress and innovation.
This landmark development ensures that Frisco remains at the forefront of growth in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, offering an attractive blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. The synergy between retail, single-family homes, and multifamily residences, coupled with expansive parks and trails, promises a holistic living experience that will define the future of Brinkmann Ranch and contribute significantly to Frisco’s reputation as a premier destination in Texas. The first units in the various residential components are expected to welcome residents in 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing narrative of Frisco’s remarkable expansion.