Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) visited Zapata County today to announce two grants totaling $623,655 for the county and for the Zapata County Economic Development Center.

The congressman joined Zapata County Judge Joseph Rathmell, Zapata County Economic Development Center President Peggy Umphres, distinguished county officials and community leaders at the county courthouse at a press conference to announce the federal grants.

“At a time when our country is going through trying economic times, it is refreshing to have the opportunity to visit Zapata to announce not one, but two grants designed to fund initiatives that will improve the quality of life and economic outlook of this warm, vibrant community,” said Cuellar. “This accomplishment is the direct result of hard work, dedication, and above all, teamwork. I congratulate Judge Joseph Rathmell and Peggy Umphres, as well as their dedicated staff, for receiving these grants and thank them for their diligent efforts to make Zapata and South Texas a remarkable place to live and visit.”

The first grant, for $323,655, is awarded to Zapata County by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The funds will be administered by the Texas Department of Rural Affairs and the program will provide first-time sewer service to seven homes in Flores II subdivision in Zapata County. 

The second grant, for $300,000, is awarded to the Zapata County Economic Development Center, Inc. by the Economic Development Administration (EDA).  The funds will allow the EDC to create a Geographic Information System database and conduct a market analysis and feasibility study to evaluate economic development activities along U.S. Highway 83 corridor.
The EDA project will enhance Zapata County’s capability to foster economic development, attract domestic and international business and become globally competitive.