Texas Muslim Community's Proposed Development EPIC City Sparks Investigations and Debate

A proposed Muslim-centric community development in North Texas, known as EPIC City, has recently become the focus of intense scrutiny and multiple investigations by both state and federal authorities. This ambitious project, led by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and backed by Community Capital Partners, aims to build a 400-acre neighborhood featuring over 1,000 homes, a mosque, a faith-based K-12 school, and community facilities near Josephine, Texas, about 30 miles northeast of Dallas.

What is EPIC City?

EPIC City is envisioned as a planned Muslim community designed to accommodate the growing Muslim population in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The development plans include residential housing, educational institutions, commercial centers, and a mosque, creating a comprehensive environment that integrates Islamic cultural and religious life with everyday living. This development reflects the broader trend of Texas's growing and diverse Muslim community.

Controversy and Investigations

Despite being in the early planning stages and not yet having filed for construction permits, EPIC City has drawn significant criticism from Texas political leaders, including Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of the community implementing Sharia law or discriminating against non-Muslims, allegations that the developers and their legal representatives have vehemently denied.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) launched a federal civil rights investigation into the project, prompted by concerns over potential religious discrimination and violations of the Texas Fair Housing Act. In parallel, state authorities, including the Texas Rangers, have conducted their own inquiries into the development's compliance with state laws and consumer protection statutes.

Responses from the Developers

Dan Cogdell, the defense attorney representing EPIC City, described the accusations as "politically charged and baseless," emphasizing that the project is an inclusive community open to people of all backgrounds. EPIC leaders have stressed that the development will adhere to all applicable federal and state laws, and that the idea of imposing Sharia law is unfounded.

Community Impact and Support

The EPIC Mosque is a well-established institution in Plano, Texas, serving a diverse Muslim population that has outgrown its current facilities. The proposed development aims to provide housing and community resources tailored to the needs of this growing population, including convenient access to prayer spaces and halal amenities.

Local Muslim residents and some elected officials, such as Texas Democratic Rep. Salman Bhojani, have voiced support for the project, highlighting that similar developments exist elsewhere and that such initiatives should be protected rather than demonized.

Conclusion: DOJ Ends Investigation

In late June 2025, the DOJ quietly closed its investigation into EPIC City, concluding that the developers committed to following federal fair housing laws and ensuring the community is welcoming to all residents. This decision contrasts with ongoing state-level probes but marks a significant step toward moving the project forward.

Reference Links & Further Reading

Understanding the Broader Context

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