A new partnership is set to transform a 3,100-acre historic ranch in Denton into a large-scale master-planned community. The project, known as Cole Ranch, will introduce thousands of new homes, extensive green space, and commercial areas to the city, with home sales projected to begin in 2027.
Houston-based Johnson Development has joined forces with The Cole Ranch Company L.P. and Denton Range LLC to advance the long-planned development located west of Interstate 35W. The revised vision for the site emphasizes connectivity, nature preservation, and a mix of residential and commercial uses.
Key Takeaways
- A partnership between Cole Ranch Company, Denton Range LLC, and Johnson Development will oversee the 3,100-acre project.
- The community will include approximately 4,365 single-family homes, with sales starting in 2027.
- Plans dedicate 1,200 acres to green space, featuring over 26 miles of trails and two community lakes.
- The development also allocates land for schools, a business park, commercial centers, and a city park.
New Partnership Drives Project Forward
The development of Cole Ranch has gained significant momentum following the formation of a new partnership. Johnson Development, a firm with a portfolio of large-scale communities, is now collaborating with the landowners to bring the vision to life. This partnership has led to refinements in the master plan, building on a foundation that has been in discussion for years.
Public meetings about the potential for thousands of homes on the site date back to 2015, and the Texas Legislature approved a municipal management district for the project in 2019. Earlier this year, the Denton City Council adjusted zoning for the area, reducing the footprint for light industrial use by over 300 acres to accommodate more mixed-use and residential spaces.
Michael Smith, CEO and president of Johnson Development, noted that while the project's core elements are unchanged, his firm contributed to key updates. "Cole Ranch reflects the kind of development we’re passionate about — large-scale, thoughtfully planned, and deeply connected to its surroundings," Smith stated.
A Focus on Green Space and Amenities
A central feature of the revised Cole Ranch plan is its commitment to preserving natural landscapes. The community will set aside approximately 1,200 acres for green space, a substantial portion of the total land.
This preserved area will be integrated into the community through an expanded trail system. The plans now call for at least 26 miles of trails, offering residents extensive paths for walking, running, and cycling. Some of these trails will wind through the heavily wooded areas along Hickory Creek, providing a scenic natural experience.
Cole Ranch by the Numbers
- Total Area: 3,100 acres
- Single-Family Homes: ~4,365
- Green Space: 1,200 acres
- Trail System: 26+ miles
- Commercial Development: 156 acres
- Business Park: 55 acres
- School Sites: 206 acres
Water features are also a key component of the amenity plan. The property includes two lakes, a larger 32-acre body of water and a smaller 13-acre lake. The development will enhance the lakefronts, creating recreational hubs for residents. In addition to the lakes, two community centers are planned, along with numerous parks, including a proposed 50-acre city park.
Honoring a Family Legacy
The land has a rich history, having been purchased by Miner Thomas “MT” Cole in the 1930s. For decades, the Cole family used the ranch primarily for raising cattle, growing crops, and managing other livestock. The decision to develop the property was made with a desire to honor that heritage.
Jennifer Alexander, Cole's great-granddaughter, shared the family's perspective on the project. She lived on the ranch with her great-grandmother for several years as a child and emphasized the importance of careful planning.
"We want to do this the right way. Cole Ranch is very near and dear to the family, and Johnson Development is the perfect partner to carry this vision forward, creating a timeless community that honors our history and the beauty of the area."
This sentiment reflects a commitment to creating a lasting community rather than just a subdivision. The involvement of the family and a developer known for master-planned projects signals an intent to balance growth with thoughtful design.
A Comprehensive Community Plan
Beyond homes and parks, Cole Ranch is designed to be a self-contained community. The master plan allocates significant acreage for various essential services and economic activity.
A total of 206 acres have been reserved for future schools within the Denton Independent School District. This includes sites for two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, ensuring educational facilities are integrated directly into the neighborhood.
Regional Growth Context
The Cole Ranch project is situated in a rapidly growing corridor of North Texas. It is adjacent to another major development, Hillwood’s 3,200-acre Landmark property. Together, these projects represent a significant expansion of residential and commercial offerings in the Denton area, driven by the continued economic growth of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
For economic development, the plan includes 156 acres for commercial use and a 55-acre business park. These areas are intended to provide local shopping, dining, and employment opportunities for residents, reducing the need for long commutes.
Johnson Development is already active in the Dallas-Fort Worth market with its Viridian community in Arlington and Trinity Falls in McKinney. The addition of Cole Ranch further solidifies its presence in one of the nation's fastest-growing regions. As the project moves toward its 2027 launch for home sales, more details on builders and home pricing are expected to be released.
