PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
The Final Phase of Legacy West
Only 12 Acres Remain at the Vibrant Mixed-Use Legacy West
In 2014, JCPenney took a bold step to reimagine the vacant land surrounding its Plano, Texas headquarters. What began as an ambitious concept to create a walkable, mixed-use urban hub quickly evolved into one of the most successful business developments in the country. Through a partnership with KDC, The Karahan Companies, and Columbus Realty, the vision became reality: Legacy West — a master-planned, live-work-play destination at the crossroads of major corporate growth and lifestyle innovation.
Over the last decade, Legacy West has become a magnet for industry-leading corporations and a model for integrated urban development. Anchored by some of the nation’s most recognizable names, the district has established itself as a premier address for headquarters and regional offices.
Today, Legacy West’s buildout is almost complete, and this walkable, urban experience is a story of mixed-use development success. However, there is one last chapter to write. Just 12 acres of land remain at the southwest corner of the Dallas North Tollway and State Highway 121. Plans for this site include 30,000 square feet of retail and up to 2 million square feet of office space, along with an upscale boutique hotel and structured parking. This prominent corner of Legacy West also provides optimal signage and branding opportunities.
“Legacy West is a testament to visionary development that seamlessly blends together well-known corporate names and the lifestyle components employees are seeking in today’s work environment,” said KDC’s Senior Vice President Development, Aarica Mims. “The last sliver of acreage isn’t about just filling a space, it is about unlocking the final piece to this vibrant community."
Why Corporations Choose Legacy West
Legacy West delivers a rare blend of flexibility, prestige, and livability. It is specifically designed for companies that demand more than just office space—it is designed for corporate culture, brand identity, and workforce excellence, thanks to:
• Strategic Location: At the corner of the Dallas North Tollway and State Highway 121, with direct routes to Dallas, the northern suburbs, and Fort Worth. • Proximity to Airports: Just 20 minutes to Dallas-Ft. Worth International and 25 minutes to Dallas Love Field. • Multi-modal Connectivity: Serviced by DART’s GoLink system and the Northwest Plano Park & Ride. • Flexibility: Customizable build-to-suit options that can adapt to a variety of industries and space needs. • Convenience: Easy access to a variety of residential options, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment
Workforce-Centric by Design
Companies operating out of Legacy West are uniquely positioned to offer employees a compelling day-to-day experience—one that integrates career, lifestyle, and community.
Legacy West’s vibrant live-work-play environment means employees don’t just work in a great location—they live and socialize here too. The neighborhood’s pedestrian- and bike-friendly layout connects office buildings to luxury apartments, renowned shopping, and a diverse culinary scene that ranges from quick casual to upscale dining. This lifestyle balance enhances employee well-being and satisfaction, driving retention and productivity. Nearby amenities like Legacy Hall, with its dynamic mix of 20+ food stalls, bars, and live entertainment, create a unique social hub for after-hours gatherings.
A Built-In Corporate Community
The surrounding corporate landscape underscores Legacy West’s value as seen by the major companies that call it home. KDC has delivered build-to-suit campuses at Legacy West for these top companies:
• Toyota North America Headquarters (2.1 million square feet) • JPMorgan Chase Campus (1.5 million square feet) • Liberty Mutual Campus (1.1 million square feet) • FedEx Corporate Office Headquarters (265,000 square feet)
These industry leaders chose Legacy West for a reason—it offers the infrastructure, talent access, and brand alignment they need to thrive in a competitive business environment.
From its groundbreaking in 2015 to almost 100% occupancy ten years later, Legacy West has become the gold standard for mixed-use development. Now, with millions of square feet of office, 415,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, a 303-room Renaissance Hotel, and more than 1,300 residential units already in place, the foundation for success is set.
For corporate users demanding a strategic, flexible location with unmatched amenities, the remaining 12 acres at Legacy West offer the opportunity to join a vibrant and thriving premier mixed-use development.
CORPORATE PROFILE
David Craig
Chairman/CEO, Craig International
In each newsletter, we look forward to offering a little insight into our business partners. David Craig, Chairman & CEO of Craig International, has worked alongside KDC for more than 10 years to bring quality developments to McKinney Corporate Center in Craig Ranch
What are you most proud of professionally?
There are two and both happened this year. I was honored to be inducted into the 2025 North Texas Commercial Real Estate Hall of Fame. Also, I was blessed by receiving the 2025 Carey Cox Outstanding Citizen of the Year Award at the annual 2025 McKinney Chamber of Commerce Awards ceremony. These awards would not be possible without the commitment and loyalty of the Craig International staff and my partners over the years. Without their support for our company and partnerships, these awards could not have been achieved.
What is the best vacation you have taken?
Most recently, I went to South Africa for two and a half weeks. It was an epic and humbling trip far beyond our expectations. We were on a 58,000-acre conservatory with the underlying mission to support the animals and the eco system. This was the epitome of becoming one with nature and it was a spiritual experience for us. We fell in love with the people, the animals and South Africa.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice was shared with me during the 1987 S&L crisis and the Great Recession in 2008. Both were very difficult times because no transactions were occurring which means no cash flow and no return on investment for my capital partners. In both cases, my father’s advice was: you can’t just walk away. You must find a way to make revenue and honor your commitments.
What is your perfect day?
I drive to my church every morning and pray outside in my car. It’s important to me to give thanks to God for all that he’s given me, and I am extremely grateful. I try to do this every day and by doing so, it makes my day perfect.
What three qualities contribute most to your success?
Honesty, integrity, and honoring my commitments.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
KDC and Hugs Café Inc. Break Ground on $10M Training Headquarters in McKinney
In a milestone moment for McKinney, Texas, KDC and nonprofit Hugs Café Inc. recently broke ground on a new $10 million headquarters. The 13,500-square-foot, two-story facility will provide vital training, employment, and growth opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Located at 221 Andrews Street near downtown McKinney and just east of the new Tupps Brewery, the headquarters is scheduled to open in the summer of 2026. The development represents a significant step forward in addressing the employment needs of adults with disabilities—a challenge that Hugs Café has been tackling since its founding in 2015 by Ruth Thompson.
KDC is serving as the project developer, bringing extensive experience in delivering high-impact facilities with community value. “Making this vision into a reality for Hugs Café Inc. is an incredible opportunity for KDC to impact the lives of individuals seeking more personalized training to become part of the workforce,” said Eric Hage, president of KDC. “We thank the Hugs Café staff and our fellow donors for letting us take part in building a brighter future for these individuals and their families.”
The new Hugs headquarters will house the nonprofit’s flagship café—currently located at 224 E. Virginia Street—and will include a state-of-the-art training kitchen, four classrooms, administrative offices, collaboration spaces, a rooftop deck, and a spacious patio. More than just a physical space, the facility is envisioned as a dynamic learning environment where instructors, staff, and trainees can work side by side in pursuit of meaningful employment outcomes.
“This new facility allows us to further address the challenge of high unemployment rates among adults with disabilities who can work and want to work, offering them a path forward and a secure tomorrow,” said Lauren Smith, executive director of Hugs Café Inc. “We are thrilled to continue our training and employment success story in McKinney.”
The project is backed by a strong coalition of supporters, including H-E-B, Sammons Enterprises Inc., Compatriot Capital, McKinney Community Development Corporation, Mabee Foundation, The FS Foundation, and Valliance Bank, which is serving as the financial partner. Through a challenge grant from the Mabee Foundation, Hugs has already secured 60% of its fundraising goal, with the task of raising the final $4 million over the next 12 months.
Designed by Corgan and constructed by general contractor Brasfield & Gorrie, the building is tailored to support both immediate program needs and long-term organizational goals. In addition to housing current initiatives—Hugs Café, Hugs Greenhouse, Hugs Home Cooking, and Hugs Training Academy—the new space is central to Hugs’ five-year strategic vision.
That vision includes training and supporting 650 individuals with disabilities, establishing 25 nonprofit mentorships, forming 10 curriculum licensing partnerships, and opening three additional Hugs Café locations. The first of these, Hugs Café Dallas, is expected to open in Fall 2025, extending the organization’s inclusive hiring model to a broader regional audience.
Today, Hugs Café employs 75 individuals—53 of whom are adults with disabilities. Hugs currently supports other organizations practicing a similar business model in Dallas; Fayetteville, Arkansas; Northbrook, Illinois; Ridgeland, Mississippi; and Tallahassee, Florida.
As construction begins, the Hugs community—staff, donors, trainees, and advocates—looks forward to the next chapter in a journey that is reshaping lives and challenging perceptions about disability in the workforce. Through its mission, partnerships, and programs, Hugs Café Inc. continues to serve as a beacon of opportunity, one meal, one class, and one job at a time.
KDC INSIGHTS
THE KDC KITCHEN
Growing Herbs for Enjoyment and Health: KDC's Barbara Dye
Barbara Dye has been an essential part of KDC for 26 years as office manager, where she oversees the day-to-day operations of the Dallas corporate office and supports the executive team. In her off hours, Barb is committed to fitness, the outdoors and an always-blooming herb garden.
Barb recently shared why and how she became involved with growing herbs and the health benefits.
Q. When did you start growing herbs?
I began about 25 years ago; my first plants were in pots on my patio. Herbs are beautiful plants; they grow year-round and smell amazing. I also cook with herbs, so it made sense.
I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy in 2001, from a pneumonia virus. The diagnosis caught me by surprise because fitness and health have been important to me. I took a deep breath and focused on reducing stress and improving heart health.
That’s when I really became involved with growing and caring for herbs. The process was very therapeutic. It helped me relax and kept me moving even when I didn’t feel very well. I also researched the’ health benefits of herbs. Some plants contain bioactive compounds that positively affect heart health. Others improve circulation, prevent blood clots, help cholesterol and blood pressure, and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce heart swelling.
Q. What types of herbs do you cultivate?
I grow garlic chives and bulbs, basil, dill, lavender, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, aloe vera, and ginger. Oregano, sage, thyme, and rosemary are easier to grow and maintain. They are hearty plants that stay beautiful year-round and hold up in the Texas heat! Working with annual herbs like dill, parsley, and basil is more challenging. The herbs require planting each year once temperatures stay above 50 degrees and need harvesting before the first frost.
Q. Do you have a favorite?
Rosemary. It was one of the first herbs I grew, and it’s easy to cultivate. It develops into a beautiful, hearty, large shrub or a smaller potted plant that stays green and smells good year-round. In addition to adding a boost to cooking, garnishing, and flavoring olive oil, rosemary is great as a natural air freshener in vases around your house. I use it in my favorite salt scrub. It is also a natural mosquito repellent.
Q. Other than health, what are the other benefits of growing herbs?
Having these herbs saves money and extra trips to the store. I grow herbs to make my garden beautiful and scentful, for nutritional benefits, and for garnishing. Some of the herbs also make great gifts!
Q. How do you successfully grow herbs?
You need well-balanced soil, adequate sunlight, and enough water. The plants should be in a well-drained area to prevent root rot.
Not all herbs are the same. Some live year-round, and you can harvest them often; doing so leads to fresh growth. Others, like annual herbs, need to be harvested before the first frost. Love your plants and check them every couple of days. It’s essential to look for bug infestation, fungus, and rodents. You can combat these pests with food-grade diatomaceous earth, coffee grounds with cinnamon powder, peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls, and sulfur.
Once harvested, the herbs can be vacuum-sealed and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for up to six months. Dried herbs stored in a sealed glass jar away from natural sunlight can last up to three years.
Q. What else would you like to add?
Taking care of herbs provides a sense of accomplishment because the plants are so beautiful, and the backyard aroma is wonderful. Herbs also have many healing properties. Incorporating them into your diet is a safe way to help treat many health problems.