The units at the new complex were snapped up instantly, highlighting urgent demand as redevelopment reshapes the city.

PLANO, Texas — Every affordable unit at Plano’s newest apartment community has already been claimed, underscoring the surging demand for lower-cost housing in North Texas.

The Park on 14th, which officially opened this week after 13 years of planning and $17 million in state and federal financing, features 62 apartments. More than half are reserved for households earning up to 80% of the area median income. That’s just under $66,000 for singles and just over $75,000 for couples according to HUD data.

For University of Texas at Dallas student Blake Newman, the project has been life-changing. 

“It’s helped out a lot honestly,” Newman said. “All the money I’ve saved on the actual rent I’ve been able to put more back into savings.”

Newman, who has a budget of about $2,000 a month, pays around $1,000 for his new one-bedroom unit.

“Everybody deserves an opportunity to live in a nice place,” he added.

Plano Mayor John Muns said developments like The Park on 14th are vital to the city’s future. 

“If we don’t have that housing that kind of fits everybody’s level, well, then they’re going to go somewhere else,” Muns said.

The opening comes as Plano undergoes sweeping redevelopment efforts, including the massive transformation of the former Collin Creek Mall site and The Shops at Willow Bend. Both projects are bringing hundreds of new rental units to the city as leaders try to balance market-rate development with affordable housing options.

The Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) acquired the land for The Park on 14th in 2012 with the goal of creating more affordable housing. TSAHC leaders say the grand opening represents progress, but also a reminder of how much more is needed.

“It barely scratches the surface for what the community truly needs to address all their housing goals,” said Michael Wilt of TSAHC. “Which isn’t to say that you can’t find housing in Plano. It’s just if you’re paying more for it, you become cost burdened.”

The Park on 14th offers residents amenities such as a fitness center, business center, media room, community space and outdoor recreation areas. Its location places residents within walking distance of downtown Plano, the city’s historic commercial district, and a nearby DART station.

Some market-rate apartments remain available.