The Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects hosted a Downtown Brownsville Master Plan Revitalization Mixer, bringing together city officials and construction and design professionals to discuss major infrastructure investments and the future of downtown development.
Assistant City Manager Doroteo Garcia Jr. presented Brownsville’s $215 million Capital Improvement Plan, which focuses on strengthening infrastructure and supporting long-term growth across the city. The comprehensive plan includes roadway reconstruction, drainage upgrades, park improvements, and the development of a new $75 million public safety facility on the north side of Brownsville.
“We have a lot of park improvements that we are doing in collaboration with the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation,” Garcia said. “The park improvements range from several splash pads, playground renovations, and numerous improvements to the existing facilities that we have, which is what our community is looking for.”
In addition to roadwork and public safety enhancements, the City is investing $28 million into traffic signal upgrades designed to improve mobility, increase safety, and reduce congestion throughout key corridors.
As infrastructure projects move forward citywide, leaders are also looking ahead to the long-term transformation of downtown Brownsville.
Planning Director Daniel Leal highlighted the 15-year Downtown Renaissance Master Plan, which builds on progress made over the last decade and expands revitalization efforts beyond the historic downtown core. The plan envisions increased housing options, expanded retail opportunities, improved walkability, and enhanced mobility options — including better access for cyclists and pedestrians.
“We want to attract more retail so people can stay and do most of their errands in downtown, and we want to expand their mobility options, not just cars but also promote biking and walking, so that would be the reason they come and stay here,” Leal said.
City leaders say the combined investments in infrastructure and downtown revitalization are designed to create a more vibrant, accessible community while positioning Brownsville to meet continued growth and economic development opportunities in the years ahead.
For more information about the City of Brownsville’s Capital Improvement Plan and the Downtown Renaissance Master Plan, visit www.brownsvilletx.gov
