The City of Plano initially conceived the property to be developed into a typical, suburban recreation park, complete with ball fields and tennis courts. Upon initial site reconnaissance, however, the planning team discovered a site that could become more of an asset for the community and add a unique facility to the city's collection of parks. The property sits in the transition zone between the Blackland Prairie region and the Whiterock Escarpment, home to a variety in animal and plant habitat. An inventory of existing species revealed that a remnant "Blackland Prairie" plants were reclaiming the old farmstead and begging for attention. Site diversity also included the Indian Creek Tributary and over 80 feet of natural topography change. The opportunity presented itself for a park based on preservation and educational discovery. The end result: the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.

The city embraced the suggestions of MESA Design Group to develop the Nature Preserve concept and contracted them to lead a team for master planning the park and completion of Phase I construction drawings. The grand opening of Phase I was appropriately marked by the ceremonial throwing of a "seed ball" (clay mixed with seeds which are gradually dispersed through rain) over the hillside overlook.