The $2,150,000 federal investment to upgrade streets and drainage infrastructure in Rio Bravo is entering the final stages of construction and inspection, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), announced today, with completion set for August. This marks the first time in 36 years that Rio Bravo’s streets have been repaved, bringing long-awaited improvements to families across the community.

This tremendous effort is the result of $1.5 million in community project funding secured by Rep. Cuellar, $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for Webb County, and $150,000 in ARPA funds for the City of Rio Bravo.

The investment reflects the Congressman’s continued focus on improving infrastructure in Rio Bravo through targeted federal support, as well as the strength of cooperation between federal, state, and city partners to deliver lasting infrastructure improvements.

“This is what bringing our federal tax dollars home looks like,” said Congressman Cuellar. “For too long, the families of Rio Bravo have had to wait for the kind of reliable infrastructure that most communities take for granted. These improvements are about more than concrete and asphalt – they’re about access, safety, and dignity.”

Congressman Cuellar thanked Río Bravo City Mayor Amanda Perez Aguero and the City Council for their leadership and commitment to making this project a reality. He also thanks Webb County for their support.

The project addresses long-standing flooding and roadway issues that have affected families, school buses, and emergency vehicles across the community. The upgrades include resurfaced streets and new drainage systems designed to keep roads open and safe during heavy rain. The new infrastructure will ensure more reliable access to neighborhoods and essential services year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Last week, Webb County approved the addition of more linear roadways to the project. The added improvements were made possible by a surplus in the original contract, thanks to efficient delivery and strong oversight. The expanded scope has already allowed more streets in Rio Bravo to benefit from the investment, with crews preparing to complete the newly added segment as part of the final phase.

“We’re fixing real problems in real neighborhoods – where families have put down roots, the community has grown, and the infrastructure simply hasn’t kept up,” Rep. Cuellar continued. “This funding proves what happens when the federal government works with our local partners to get things done for South Texas. It’s about making sure families in Rio Bravo have safe roads to get to school and work, that first responders don’t get stalled by high water, and that our small businesses have the infrastructure they need to keep this community moving forward.”

Congressman Cuellar, a senior member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, has made infrastructure investment in Rio Bravo and rural communities a core focus of his work in Washington. In Congress, he brings federal tax dollars home to support targeted improvements – from streets and drainage to public safety, health care, and utility systems – that strengthen daily life and expand opportunity for families across South Texas.

A ribbon cutting is planned for August following final inspection. Additional details will be shared by the Congressman’s office in the coming weeks.

Congressman Cuellar is available for interviews in-person, by phone, or virtually via Zoom. For press inquiries or interview requests, please contact Fernanda Nunez-Cazares, fernanda.nunez-cazares@mail.house.gov, or Matt Landini, matt@mail.house.gov.

###

Martha Drive Improvements in Rio Bravo

Centeno Road Improvements in Rio Bravo

Peña Drive Improvements in Rio Bravo

Crisantena Drive Improvements in Rio Bravo

Limon Street Improvements in Rio Bravo