Frisco Businesses Launch #SAVEMAIN Campaign Amidst Prolonged Downtown Construction
FRISCO, TX – Nearly two dozen businesses along Main Street in Frisco have united under the banner of #SAVEMAIN, voicing concerns over significant financial losses stemming from ongoing construction projects intended to revitalize the downtown area. The campaign, launched Friday, aims to raise awareness and drive support for independent businesses struggling during the extended disruption.
Construction began on Main Street in July 2024, expanding to Fourth Street in September and including work on a new parking garage starting in February. The projects, wich include enhancements to the Rail District and Old Town areas with a new parking garage next to the plaza, are slated for completion in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, business owners say the timeline is taking a heavy toll.
“We’re trying to bring awareness to the street and to the losses that the independent businesses have taken over the time of construction that’s been going down here on Main Street,” said a spokesperson for the group. Some businesses have been forced to refinance, take out loans, or borrow from family members to remain operational.
The city acknowledges the hardship. Frisco’s Assistant Director of Capital and Development Engineering, Dubois, stated the city is “doing whatever we can to maintain access to the businesses throughout construction,” including adding wayfinding signage to direct customers around closures and detours. He also noted that the project costs extend beyond initial funding and account for unforeseen circumstances.
City staff are making a concerted effort to support businesses economically by dining at local restaurants and hosting meetings downtown, with monthly check-ins between staff and business owners.
Despite these efforts, businesses are now calling for immediate financial assistance. CBS News Texas has information available on current relief options for impacted businesses.
Approximately 200 people – owners, staff, and supporters – participated in a demonstration Friday, displaying signs and T-shirts as a drone captured an aerial view of the show of support.
“I started out in this area of Main Street, and I just watched it change and grow, and I’m really excited about the changes that are happening, but I know it has to be really hard on the merchants here,” said Tricia Lauerman, a 13-year small business owner and Main Street customer. “So I do everything I can to come down and sneak in the back way.”
The city anticipates the projects will be finished by the end of the year or January at the latest, with roadways and sidewalks becoming fully accessible, followed by the installation of decorative elements.Though, business owners emphasize the urgent need for support before the completion date. The #SAVEMAIN campaign encourages residents to visit, dine, and shop at Main Street establishments, purchase gift cards, and spread the word.
