The Plano Planning & Zoning Commission is set to meet on Monday, September 21, to vote on the final site‑plan for AT&T’s new global headquarters at 5400 Legacy Drive. The decision follows months of demolition, preliminary approvals and a $20 million economic‑development incentive agreement that obligates AT&T to build at least 2 million square feet and create up to 10,000 full‑time job equivalents by the end of 2039.
Project scope and commitments
Under a February economic‑development agreement, AT&T has pledged to occupy a minimum of 2 million square feet of office, amenity and retail space at the former Electronic Data Systems (EDS) campus. The agreement also requires at least $1.35 billion in fair‑market‑value real‑property improvements.
Preliminary plans released earlier this year outline a multi‑building campus of roughly 2.3 million square feet, including office towers, parking structures, landscaped areas and other amenities. Zoning approval allows a sculptural communications structure up to 280 feet tall on part of the property.
Economic impact for Plano
The city expects the project to generate significant economic activity. In addition to the $1.35 billion in property improvements, the development will bring new retail and service options, and the promised job creation will bolster Plano’s labor market. Local officials have highlighted the move as a vote of confidence in Plano’s business‑friendly environment and its ability to host a major telecommunications company.
Background of the relocation
AT&T’s decision to relocate its global headquarters from downtown Dallas to Plano concluded a year‑long period of speculation. The company confirmed the move in January 2026, stating that the new campus will begin partial occupancy in the second half of 2028. While AT&T executives have discussed public‑safety and governance concerns with Dallas city leaders, the company has not attributed the relocation solely to those issues.
The former EDS headquarters was imploded on August 9, a demolition that residents reported could be heard for miles. The blast cleared the site for the upcoming construction and marked the end of a landmark tied to Texas businessman Ross Perot.
What the vote means for residents
Approval of the final site‑plan would clear a major regulatory hurdle, allowing construction to move forward. Residents can expect construction traffic and temporary disruptions, but city officials say the long‑term benefits—including new jobs, increased tax revenue and enhanced amenities—outweigh short‑term inconveniences.
While the vote does not trigger immediate employee relocation, AT&T has targeted the second half of 2028 for the first phase of occupancy. The company’s presence is projected to reinforce Plano’s reputation as a hub for high‑tech and telecommunications firms.
Next steps
If the commission approves the plan, AT&T will proceed with detailed engineering, permitting and construction schedules. The city will continue to monitor compliance with the economic‑development agreement, ensuring that job‑creation and construction milestones are met.
Plano residents and business owners are encouraged to stay informed through city communications and upcoming public‑notice meetings as the project progresses.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
