McKINNEY, Texas (Nov. 6, 2009) – A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled to celebrate the opening of John M. Whisenant Park, McKinney's newest neighborhood school park and the second such opening in less than a month. The public and surrounding community is invited to join the ceremony this Friday, Nov. 13 at 2 p.m. at the site of the park, located at 3701 Hudson Crossing near Edris Childres Elliott Elementary.  

A special performance from the Elliott Singers includes the debut of “Ode to Elliott,” a song written by members of the fifth grade. Student leadership members will address the crowd along with members of the City Council, McKinney Community Development Corporation and the Parks Advisory Board.

“Our neighborhood school parks are so important not only to the school and neighborhood, but really to the entire community. This is evident through the tremendous support we get to continue to develop neighborhood parks adjacent to every elementary school in our growing city,” said Parks, Recreation and Open Space Director Lemuel Randolph. “The parks system is part of McKinney’s identity and high quality of life that our residents value.” 

John M. Whisenant Park features a playground, pavilion, jogging trail, swings, splash pad and turf grass areas suitable for athletic team practice.   

John M. Whisenant was a McKinney leader who contributed in many ways to the growth of the city. He was instrumental in developing the first industrial park in McKinney along Industrial Boulevard and brought industries like Montgomery Elevator and Triangle Pacific to McKinney. He also organized efforts and raised funds to begin restoration of historical sites such as Heritage Square and Delaney House. His vision for education ultimately resulted in the Collin County Community College system. 

Contact the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Department at (972) 547-7480 for more information about the park and opening.  

About McKinney

McKinney, Texas, is unique by nature. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., McKinney has a current population of 122,000. Incorporated in 1848, the city is located 30 miles north of Dallas and is the county seat of Collin County. McKinney offers rolling hills, lush trees, a historic downtown square and unique neighborhoods and developments, and it was recently ranked as one of the Top 10 Best Places to Move by Forbes Magazine. Visit the city’s Web site at http://www.mckinneytexas.org/.