Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced $1,000,000 in community project funding for the renovation of the Zapata County 4-H Rodeo Arena.

“The Zapata County 4-H rodeo arena is a pillar of the Zapata County community. I secured this federal funding to ensure our students, our young farmers and ranchers, and our community have a reliable facility to enjoy livestock-related activities anytime throughout the year,” said Dr. Cuellar. “The renovations will revitalize the arena and boost the local economy. Thank you to Zapata County Judge Joe Rathmell, the Zapata County Commissioner’s Court, and Jesus Rodriguez from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension for working with me to secure this community project funding.”

“The Office of the Zapata County Judge would like to thank Congressman Henry Cuellar for his continued service to the people of Zapata County,” said Zapata County Judge Joe Rathmell. “Congressman Cuellar has secured the funding necessary to make major improvements to the rodeo arena. The 1-million-dollar earmark will allow for improvements including a roof covering for the arena, and the construction of restroom facilities, and other upgrades. Zapata County continues to hold strongly to the traditions of cattle ranching. Calf roping and barrel racing are popular sports among our young and older residents. The improved facility will be a boon for our youth and will bring area-wide competitions and rodeo events to the County. Thank you, Congressman Cuellar.”

The funding will be used for an all-weather Roping Arena roof, bleachers, and restroom facilities. Without these improvements, the arena’s usage is heavily restricted. The rodeo arena is frequently used for local school activities, livestock shows, and standard rodeo activities.

Congressman Cuellar has brought in other critical funding for Zapata County, including $2,000,000  for a new fire station, $1,000,000  for a new emergency operations center,  $660,000 for the sheriff department headquarters, $1,000,000 to repair homes.

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