Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced his administration "halted" the construction of a Muslim-themed residential community dubbed "EPIC City" citing criminal concerns, but the East Plano Islamic Center (the nonprofit organization behind the project) told the Latin Times developers have yet to submit their proposal.
"We have not submitted the plans for approval so not sure what that means to be halted," an EPIC representative wrote via text message, responding to Abbott's Sunday evening post on X.
"Texas has halted any construction of EPIC City. There is no construction taking place. The state of Texas has launched about a half dozen investigations into this project. That includes criminal investigations. And, the US Department of justice is also investigating."
- Gov. Greg Abbott
In a separate message, Dan Cogdell, an attorney for Community Capital Partners, which is also behind the proposal, said:
"Construction was never underway as the project is still in the planning phases, so there was nothing to halt. The EPIC team is cooperating fully with any and all investigations- regardless of how misguided and unnecessary they are."
The project proposal, which covers more than 400 acres across Collin and Hunt counties, plans to include a mosque, private faith-based school, over 1,000 homes, and retail space.
"Our mission is to build a vibrant and inclusive community that caters to the evolving needs of families the Muslim community. We are dedicated to creating a space where everyone feels welcome, safe, and empowered to grow," the project's website reads.
However, EPIC has faced a heavy amount of backlash, including criminal accusations, from top GOP officials since the project's announcement. Abbott published a written statement in February, saying "Sharia law is not allowed in Texas." Texas Senator John Cornyn accused EPIC of potential "religious discrimination" and requested Attorney General Pamela Bondi to launch a federal investigation.
"I am grateful to Attorney General Bondi and the Department of Justice for hearing my concerns and opening an investigation into the proposed EPIC City development in North Texas," Cornyn said. "Religious discrimination and Sharia Law have no place in the Lone Star State. Any violations of federal law must be swiftly prosecuted, and I know under the Trump administration, they will be."
EPIC representatives and Muslim community advocates say the accusations are "groundless," claiming that the project follows state and federal laws and regulations.
The EPIC City website remained active as of Monday, continuing to promote investment opportunities and collect interest forms for residential plots.
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