Rio Grande City, TX—Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) held a press conference to announce a $2.5 million federal earmark to improve water pipes and restore water pressure on the east side of Rio Grande City. The Congressman also announced $121 million in transportation funding for Starr County.

The East Water Loop project will address the city’s critical need to maintain adequate water pressure for economic development, public health and public safety—especially fire safety.

The $121 million in transportation funding includes 2 highway projects that will be developed or undergo construction over the next 10 years. Funds are authorized through the Texas Department of Transportation’s 2023 Unified Transportation Program, which is the state’s 10-year plan to guide the development of transportation work across the state.

“This federal earmark underscores the importance of safety resources needed in our community. The funding will support vital water supply infrastructure to support our fire fighters responding to emergencies. When firefighters don’t have the resources they need to do their jobs, it puts the safety and prosperity of our entire community at risk. That is why I have been dedicated to securing federal funding for community projects,” said Congressman Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “The transportation investment also reflects how much Starr County has grown and the potential it has to continue to do so. I am proud to have helped pass the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which has led to increases in transportation funding. I would like to thank County Judge Eloy Vera and Mayor Joel Villarreal for their continued support to improve the health, safety and security of our community.”

"Our Starr County community continues to see increased commercial development and will soon see expansive industrial projects locate in the area. This historic growth requires that our infrastructure and transportation connectivity allow us to keep pace and be a competitive leader in business recruitment and expansion. We are fortunate to have great partners in our local municipalities and the Starr County Industrial Foundation that together with Congressman Cuellar ensure our community is never left behind,” said Starr County Judge Eloy Vera.

“Investment in critical infrastructure is absolutely essential to a municipality’s future growth and prosperity. Rio Grande City continues to invest in infrastructure to sustain and support any and all future developments,” said Rio Grande City Mayor Joel Villareal

Currently, the east side of Rio Grande City is struggling to maintain adequate water pressure standards, which has long standing implications for fire safety. Funding for this project will ensure firefighters have the necessary water pressure to respond to fire emergencies and can protect residents and businesses from potentially devastating fire emergencies. This funding is also crucial for the future economic development of Rio Grande City. The proposed new water line installation will promote economic development by providing the infrastructure for businesses to open and thrive.

To date, Texas has already received $5.2 billion in funding for highways and $115 million for bridges from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

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