DALLAS — EPIC City, a proposed Muslim-centric community development in North Texas, faces significant opposition from state officials and residents. 

The East Plano Islamic Center and investment group Community Capital Partners are spearheading the project on a 400-acre purchased property in Josephine, a city about 40 miles northeast of Dallas. 

The EPIC City website states that their mission “is to build a vibrant and inclusive community that caters to the evolving needs of families in the Muslim community.” 

The development would offer more than 1,000 homes, a K-12 faith based school, a mosque and other community amenities. 

While EPIC City planners say they’re still in the planning phase, Gov. Greg Abbott is demanding EPIC put a stop to any construction plans after five investigations were launched. 

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Abbott said, “Texas is investigating EPIC City for many allegations, including attempts to circumvent the law.” 

The opposition to the development isn’t just at the state level. On March 31, Collin County residents spent hours, during public comment, speaking out against the project. 

One resident told commissioners, “they are going to have their own schools. Then, they’re going to…are they going to stay in their own little community, and they’re not going to leave out of their community?” 

Another speaker said his parents and grandparents “would not want this in our state, in our republic, much less our nation.” 

But there were also those in favor of the development, calling out the state and local community members for spreading misinformation and hate towards the Muslim community. 

“These individuals deserve fair treatment and real representation. We must advocate for an inclusive Texas where everyone, regardless of race, religion or background, can thrive,” said one public speaker. 

Collin County Judge Chris Hill, during that Monday commissioners meeting, said that EPIC City planners haven’t presented any applications to the county yet. 

But Hill said, “I cannot support this project,” noting his and other residents’ concerns about potential housing discrimination. 

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality says EPIC City still hasn’t received the needed permits and authorizations to start construction.