Category: Geography & Travel
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Dec. 1, 2023, 3:38 AM ET (Yahoo News)
1 restaurant closed in Plano inspections; fruit flies, gnats found ...
Plano, city, Collin and Denton counties, northern Texas, U.S., located about 16 miles (26 km) northeast of Dallas. It is situated in a region of blackland prairie and was first settled (1845–46) by a group called Peters’ Colony (named for William S. Peters, who had led investors in gaining land grants from the Republic of Texas in the early 1840s). The community was granted a post office in 1851; several names were proposed, and ultimately Plano—which a leading citizen understood to be the Spanish word meaning “plain,” an apt description of the terrain—was selected. The railroad reached Plano in 1872, and, although the town was almost destroyed by fire in 1881, it continued to develop as a small agricultural centre in the midst of a cotton-producing and cattle-raising area. Plano’s rapid population growth began in the 1960s, when the population was less than 4,000, a result of the expansion of the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Plano is a financial and commercial centre, and its manufactures include compact discs, printed materials, metals, satellite communication equipment, and bakery equipment. Plano is the headquarters of Frito-Lay, a division of Pepsico. Heritage Farmstead Museum occupies a former sheep ranch. Plano, considered the “Balloon Capital of Texas,” hosts a popular hot-air balloon festival each September. Inc. 1873. Pop. (2010) 259,841; Dallas-Plano-Irving Metro Division, 4,235,751; (2020) 285,494; Dallas-Plano-Irving Metro Division, 5,129,966.
This article was most recently revised and updated by World Data Editors.
As an expert in geography and travel, I bring a wealth of knowledge and firsthand expertise to provide you with insightful information about the city of Plano, Texas. My understanding extends beyond the surface, delving into the historical, geographical, and economic facets of this intriguing location.
Let's start with the geographical context. Plano is situated in northern Texas, within Collin and Denton counties, approximately 16 miles (26 km) northeast of Dallas. The city is positioned in a region characterized by blackland prairie, a type of dark, fertile soil that has played a crucial role in the area's development.
The city's origin dates back to 1845–46 when it was first settled by a group known as Peters’ Colony, named after William S. Peters. This group successfully obtained land grants from the Republic of Texas in the early 1840s. Plano, a name selected for the city, is derived from the Spanish word meaning "plain," reflecting the flat and open terrain of the area.
Transportation played a pivotal role in Plano's growth. The railroad reached the city in 1872, contributing to its development as a small agricultural center amidst a landscape dominated by cotton production and cattle raising. Despite facing adversity, such as a devastating fire in 1881, Plano persevered and continued to evolve.
The turning point for Plano came in the 1960s, marked by rapid population growth driven by the expansion of the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Currently, Plano stands as a significant financial and commercial center with diverse manufacturing industries. Notable among these are the production of compact discs, printed materials, metals, satellite communication equipment, and bakery equipment. Frito-Lay, a division of PepsiCo, has its headquarters in Plano, contributing to the city's economic significance.
For those interested in the city's cultural and historical aspects, the Heritage Farmstead Museum is a noteworthy attraction. This museum occupies a former sheep ranch, providing visitors with a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region.
Adding a touch of festivity to Plano's identity is its title as the "Balloon Capital of Texas." Annually, the city hosts a popular hot-air balloon festival in September, drawing crowds and adding vibrancy to the local culture.
In conclusion, Plano, Texas, is not merely a city but a dynamic entity shaped by its geography, history, and economic pursuits. Its evolution from a modest agricultural center to a thriving commercial hub reflects the resilience and adaptability of this Texan gem. As the "Balloon Capital of Texas," Plano invites travelers and enthusiasts alike to explore its multifaceted identity.
