The McKinney Community Development Corporation approved over $1.14 million in project grants during its Aug. 27 board meeting. The funding supports three local organizations: McKinney Roots, CommonGood Medical, and the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary.
McKinney Roots will receive $764,953 to relocate and expand its donation farm at Gray Branch Park. The funds cover infrastructure costs such as underground utilities, dirt work, irrigation, sanitary systems, and driveway improvements. City documents indicate plans include doubling hydroponic production, adding a 200-tree orchard, increasing the chicken flock, and expanding produce output and educational programming.
CommonGood Medical received $306,348.08 to relocate its clinic to 2750 Virginia Parkway in McKinney. The nonprofit stated it is moving to a larger facility to serve uninsured residents across Collin County. The final award amount was lower than the $447,677.25 originally requested because some expenses were deemed ineligible.
The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary was awarded $72,102.16 for campus improvements. The grant supports a new indoor Bug Abode exhibit, as well as painting and restoration work on floor murals.
MCDC Board Chair George Fuller said the projects advance the corporation’s strategic priorities and address important community needs. He noted that two investments support residents facing financial challenges while another expands recreation and education opportunities.
