A zoning change has paved the way for more shopping, parking and dining options at Allen Premium Outlets.The 69-acre site is located along US 75 and Stacy Road.
Developer Simon Property Group plans to add more parking, free-standing restaurants and hotels to the vacant lot located north of the popular shopping center. It will also expand the shopping structure at the center of the existing facility, currently occupied by Neiman Marcus Last Call. Other upgrades include a pedestrian plaza, façade improvements and opportunities for more carts and kiosks.
Current outlet shops will receive design upgrades, including stone and brick accents, along with towers to add architectural interest.
“Every 16-18 years you need a little bit of gussying-up,” said Barry Knight, a representative from Simon Property Group.
Traffic impacts were given particular attention during the planning process. City engineering staff vetted a traffic study and suggested several changes. The current entrance/exit to the mall from Stacy Road will become entrance-only, simplifying traffic on Stacy. Deceleration lanes from the 75 frontage road will be created to ease congestion on the ramp.
“Simon and the City of Allen have shown a good public-private partnership,” said Knight. “I can tell you, from personal experience, Allen does an exemplary job.”
Council members voted unanimously to approve the zoning change from corridor commercial to a planned development. This change eliminates some retail uses, such as auto sales, and requires developers to provide more detailed plans, such as building elevations and landscaping.