As North Texas braces for forecast freezing temperatures and snow this weekend, Collin County officials have announced some modified services in light of the winter storm watch issued by the National Weather Service for Dallas-Fort Worth.
Outdoor facilities
In Plano, the city parks department is temporarily shutting down drinking fountains, dog park fountains and some restroom buildings in preparation for freezing temperatures. While the city uses freeze-resistant fountains, long periods of temperatures below freezing can cause failures, according to a city statement.
Park drinking fountains shut down beginning Tuesday and will not be available until next week. Dog park fountains will shut off starting at noon on Friday.
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D-FW Weather Wise
Beginning Friday morning, restroom buildings at Russell Creek near the athletic fields, Preston Meadows, Cheyenne Park and Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve will be temporarily closed.
“We do not have other closures at this time but we are continually monitoring the forecast and will make adjustments as needed,” said Plano spokesperson Amanda McNew in a statement.
In Allen, the Courses at Watters Creek will close all courses from Thursday through Monday. Grill 33, the golf course cafe, will close Thursday through Sunday, and the driving range will close Saturday and Sunday.
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Meetings and events
Collin County’s Historical Commission Coalition Meeting was postponed to Feb. 21 at the Collin County History Museum in McKinney. The county’s free Storm Spotter Training, scheduled for Saturday, has also been postponed.
Keeping warm
The Plano Overnight Warming Station, which opens when temperatures dip below freezing, plans to open Thursday through Monday. Volunteers at the short-term emergency shelter, hosted at the East Plano Islamic Center at 4700 14th St., provide transportation from the Parker Road DART station to the facility and offer food and shelter.
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Abdullah Shegow, who helps run the shelter, expects around 200 guests each night this weekend.
“It’s part of our faith to help those who are in need,” Shegow said. “This has impacted unhomed guests in a major positive way. We’re glad to do that.”
The McKinney Emergency Overnight Warming Station, hosted at First McKinney Baptist Church, also plans to open this weekend.
This story is developing and will be updated.
Email tips on all things Collin County to lilly.kersh@dallasnews.com.