PHARR AND CORPUS CHRISTI SCHOOLS RECEIVE 2020 NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON HONORS

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Yesterday, the United States Department of Education (USDE) announced that 26 Texas schools have been recognized as National Blue Ribbon schools for 2020. Recipients of this prestigious honor are selected based on a school’s high level of student achievement or their exemplary progress in closing achievement gaps among student subgroups.

Of the 26 schools selected, three Senate District 20 schools were recognized: Kelly-Pharr Elementary School (Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD), the Windsor Park G/T Elementary School (Corpus Christi ISD), and the Early Childhood Development Center (Corpus Christi ISD). All 26 campuses nominated by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in February received the designation. TEA’s nomination was based on student performance on the first administration of the 2019 STAAR assessments.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“Congratulations to all the schools in Texas who were selected for this honor. I especially would like to recognize the students and educators at Kelly-Pharr Elementary School, Windsor Park G/T Elementary School, and the Early Childhood Development Center. Their National Blue Ribbon designation is attributed to the hard work of the students and the dedication and commitment from their teachers and administrators. Education is the greatest equalizer in our society and is the key to our future successes.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

RIO GRANDE VALLEY STATE VETERANS CEMETERY AWARDED $1.5 MILLION GRANT

AUSTIN, TX – Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Chairman of the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), George P. Bush, announced that the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has awarded a grant of  $1,520,470 to the Veterans Land Board for expansion and improvements to the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas.

The grant will fund the construction of 1,400 columbarium niches, a memorial wall, signage, irrigation, landscaping and supporting infrastructure on approximately two acres, enabling the cemetery to provide continued service for approximately 39,722 Veterans and their eligible family members.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery is the final resting place for the brave men and women who served our country in the Armed Forces and some who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our freedom. I appreciate Commissioner George P. Bush and his staff for securing this grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is important to honor all soldiers who answer the call to duty and sacrifice their lives. The cemetery is currently equipped for 25,000 veterans and their families and this grant will expand capacity to nearly 40,000. It will also add a memorial wall to further honor our veterans.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

TWDB APPROVES PRIORITIZED PROJECT LIST FOR 2020 FLOOD INFRASTRUCTURE FUND CYCLE INCLUDES PROJECTS IN HIDALGO COUNTY

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Today, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved the prioritized project list for the 2020 Flood Infrastructure Fund (FIF) inaugural cycle and establishing the amount of funds available for applications, the structure of financing, and the terms of the subsidy. The action taken represents step two of the five-step process, which will eventually provide funding for future flood mitigation projects in Hidalgo County.

For the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List, TWDB approved 285 abridged applications requesting a total of $2,390,567,776. However, only applications from entities with projects ranked within the available funding. As of today, $770 million is available for projects, of which $231 million (30%) is allocated to grants and $539 million (70%) is allocated for loans. Among the 285 eligible applications that made the first cut, the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List includes 14 projects (listed below) within Hidalgo County.

As part of step three of the process, starting tomorrow the TWDB will begin inviting entities to submit complete financial assistance applications and Letters of Intent to Apply. Letters of Intent to Apply will be distributed to all applicants within the available funding as well as those below the line, which will form a waiting list should funds become available. Should funds become available due to invited entities declining to apply, invitations will be sent in ranked order down the prioritized list to applicants that met the TWDB’s Intent to Apply deadline. After complete applications are reviewed, TWDB will make a financial assistance recommendation to be considered by the Board in public meetings this upcoming Fall and Winter.

The 2019 Texas Legislature passed several bills related to flooding, including Senate Bill 7 which lead to creation of the FIF program. The new FIF program provides financial assistance in the form of loans with an interest rate of 0% and grants for flood control, flood mitigation, and drainage projects. As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and a co-author of Senate Bill 500, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was instrumental in securing funding to start the FIF program through a one-time transfer of $793 million from the “Rainy Day” Fund.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“As the state continues to deal with ramifications of COVID-19, we cannot forget the flood disasters our state has dealt with in the past. I appreciate our local officials on completing the first step of the process by submitting their abridged applications earlier this summer. We must also move forward with investing in flood mitigation projects to prepare for future flood events. With today’s action by the TWDB, the state takes another step towards mitigating the damage caused by future flood events. The Flood Infrastructure Fund Program was established for this purpose and I am glad to see the process is moving forward despite the current economic downturn.

 

Ranked Position Entity Name Project Name Amount Requested Eligible Grant % Eligible Grant Amount Eligible Loan

Amount (or Entity’s

Funds)

 

31 Hidalgo County Drainage District #1 Phase 1 Flood Control Project $29,700,000 30% $8,910,000 $20,790,000
38 Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council Lower Rio Grande Valley Regional Flood Protection Planning $8,870,000 90% $7,983,000 $887,000
54 Pharr South Pharr Regional Detention Facility and Drainage Improvement $4,510,000 30% $1,353,000 $ 3,157,000
112 Alton North Stewart Blvd Drainage Improvements $8,500,000 35% $2,975,000 $5,525,000
114 Weslaco Kansas and Los Torritos Drainage Improvements to Mayor Pablo Pena

Park – Phase 1

$3,002,627 65% $1,951,708 $1,050,919
119 La Villa Water Treatment Plant Relocation $8,939,000 44% $3,933,160 $5,005,840
140 Mercedes Storm Sewer and Drainage System GIS Mapping & Hydraulic Study $75,000 34% $25,500 $49,500
172 Weslaco Regional Detention Pond Project 2, Phase 1B $3,040,000 25% $760,000 $2,280,000
231 Mission Mission Drainage System $100 Million 23% $23,000,000 $77,000,000
236 Mercedes Collier Park Stormwater Pump Station $400,000 34% $136,000 $264,000
237 Mercedes FEMA Dome Stormwater Pump Station $500,000 34% $170,000 $330,000
238 Mercedes Union Pacific R.R. Regional Detention Facility $750,000 34% $255,000 $495,000
239 Weslaco Mayor Pablo Peña Regional Detention Facility $4,900,000 25% $1,225,000 $3,675,000
260 Mercedes Northeastern Stormwater Detention Facility $1,800,000 34% $612,000 $1,188,000

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

TWDB APPROVES PRIORITIZED PROJECT LIST FOR 2020 FLOOD INFRASTRUCTURE FUND CYCLE INCLUDES PROJECTS IN ALICE

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Today, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved the prioritized project list for the 2020 Flood Infrastructure Fund (FIF) inaugural cycle and establishing the amount of funds available for applications, the structure of financing, and the terms of the subsidy. The action taken represents step two of the five-step process, which will eventually provide funding for future flood mitigation projects in the City of Alice.

For the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List, TWDB approved 285 abridged applications requesting a total of $2,390,567,776. However, only applications from entities with projects ranked within the available funding. As of today, $770 million is available for projects, of which $231 million (30%) is allocated to grants and $539 million (70%) is allocated for loans. Among the 285 eligible applications that made the first cut, the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List includes 2 projects (listed below) submitted by the City of Alice.

As part of step three of the process, starting tomorrow the TWDB will begin inviting entities to submit complete financial assistance applications and Letters of Intent to Apply. Letters of Intent to Apply will be distributed to all applicants within the available funding as well as those below the line, which will form a waiting list should funds become available. Should funds become available due to invited entities declining to apply, invitations will be sent in ranked order down the prioritized list to applicants that met the TWDB’s Intent to Apply deadline. After complete applications are reviewed, TWDB will make a financial assistance recommendation to be considered by the Board in public meetings this upcoming Fall and Winter.

The 2019 Texas Legislature passed several bills related to flooding, including Senate Bill 7 which lead to creation of the FIF program. The new FIF program provides financial assistance in the form of loans with an interest rate of 0% and grants for flood control, flood mitigation, and drainage projects. As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and a co-author of Senate Bill 500, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was instrumental in securing funding to start the FIF program through a one-time transfer of $793 million from the “Rainy Day” Fund.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“As the state continues to deal with ramifications of COVID-19, we cannot forget the flood disasters our state has dealt with in the past. I appreciate our local officials on completing the first step of the process by submitting their abridged applications earlier this summer. We must also move forward with investing in flood mitigation projects to prepare for future flood events. With today’s action by the TWDB, the state takes another step towards mitigating the damage caused by future flood events. The Flood Infrastructure Fund Program was established for this purpose and I am glad to see the process is moving forward despite the current economic downturn.

 

Ranked Position Entity Name Project Name Amount Requested Eligible Grant % Eligible Grant Amount Eligible Loan

Amount (or Entity’s

Funds)

 

5 Alice Master Drainage Planning Study $241,500 90% $217,350 $24,150
98 Alice Pintas Creek at Sunset Dr. & Virginia St. Drainage Improvements $372,500 77% $286,825 $85,675

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

TWDB APPROVES PRIORITIZED PROJECT LIST FOR 2020 FLOOD INFRASTRUCTURE FUND CYCLE INCLUDES PROJECTS IN NUECES COUNTY

AUSTIN, TEXAS — Today, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved the prioritized project list for the 2020 Flood Infrastructure Fund (FIF) inaugural cycle and establishing the amount of funds available for applications, the structure of financing, and the terms of the subsidy. The action taken represents step two of the five-step process, which will eventually provide funding for future flood mitigation projects in Nueces County.

For the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List, TWDB approved 285 abridged applications requesting a total of $2,390,567,776. However, only applications from entities with projects ranked within the available funding. As of today, $770 million is available for projects, of which $231 million (30%) is allocated to grants and $539 million (70%) is allocated for loans. Among the 285 eligible applications that made the first cut, the 2020 Abridged Application Prioritized Project List includes 7 projects (listed below) within Nueces County.

As part of step three of the process, starting tomorrow the TWDB will begin inviting entities to submit complete financial assistance applications and Letters of Intent to Apply. Letters of Intent to Apply will be distributed to all applicants within the available funding as well as those below the line, which will form a waiting list should funds become available. Should funds become available due to invited entities declining to apply, invitations will be sent in ranked order down the prioritized list to applicants that met the TWDB’s Intent to Apply deadline. After complete applications are reviewed, TWDB will make a financial assistance recommendation to be considered by the Board in public meetings this upcoming Fall and Winter.

The 2019 Texas Legislature passed several bills related to flooding, including Senate Bill 7 which lead to creation of the FIF program. The new FIF program provides financial assistance in the form of loans with an interest rate of 0% and grants for flood control, flood mitigation, and drainage projects. As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and a co-author of Senate Bill 500, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was instrumental in securing funding to start the FIF program through a one-time transfer of $793 million from the “Rainy Day” Fund.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“As the state continues to deal with ramifications of COVID-19, we cannot forget the flood disasters our state has dealt with in the past. I appreciate our local officials on completing the first step of the process by submitting their abridged applications earlier this summer. We must also move forward with investing in flood mitigation projects to prepare for future flood events. With today’s action by the TWDB, the state takes another step towards mitigating the damage caused by future flood events. The Flood Infrastructure Fund Program was established for this purpose and I am glad to see the process is moving forward despite the current economic downturn.

 

Ranked Position Entity Name Project Name Amount Requested Eligible Grant % Eligible Grant Amount Eligible Loan

Amount (or Entity’s

Funds)

 

7 Driscoll Master Drainage Planning Study $150,000 90% $135,000 $15,000
24 Nueces County Drainage & Conservation District #2 Master Drainage Planning Study $550,000 100% $550,000  N/A
32 Nueces County Nueces County Regional Drainage Master Plan Study $2,250,000 75% $1,687,500 $562,500
52 Nueces County Drainage & Conservation District #2 Casa Blanca Drainage Improvements $810,000 46% $372,600 $437,400
71 Nueces County Drainage & Conservation District #2 Flood Early Warning System $612,500 76% $465,500 $147,000
92 Nueces County Drainage & Conservation District #2 Bosquez Rd. / Avenue J Drainage Improvements $2,453,731 46% $1,128,716 $1,325,015
93 Nueces County Drainage & Conservation District #2 Ditch “A” and Bluebonnet Drainage Improvements $1,312,000 36% $472,320 $320,318,931

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

HECTOR P. GARCIA DAY — SEPTEMBER 16, 2020

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Wednesday commemorates the legacy of Dr. Hector P. Garcia, a Mexican-American civil rights leader who founded the American GI forum and fought for the rights of Hispanics in this country. In 2009, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa designated the third Wednesday in September as Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day through Senate Bill 495. The bill authorized the observance of the day by schools and state agencies to honor Dr. Garcia and teach our younger generations about his legacy. Senator Hinojosa also passed a resolution naming a portion of State Highway 286 the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Highway in Corpus Christi.

Dr. Garcia was a legendary physician and World War II Veteran who fought for the rights of Hispanics and veterans who were denied educational, medical and housing opportunities. He also fought for labor rights, voting rights, and justice system reform. He selflessly served and advocated for the most vulnerable and underserved portions in our communities.

Dr. Garcia was the first Mexican-American to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our country’s highest civilian honor, and earned a Bronze Star and six battle stars for his military service. He served as an advisor to Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson and Jimmy Carter and served as the first Hispanic on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

Senator Hinojosa commented on the value of commemorating Dr. Garcia’s contributions:

“All Texans should remember Dr. Hector P. Garcia, an extraordinary man who dedicated his life to public service and the equal treatment of all. Dr. Garcia courageously fought for the civil rights of veterans and Hispanics, breaking down the barriers they faced to education, health care, fair labor practices, and housing. He demonstrated leadership and sacrifice in his fight to protect our liberties and ensure that all Americans are treated with dignity and respect.

Dr. Garcia embodies the spirit of selflessness and public service. As a private American citizen, he exercised his constitutional rights to elevate awareness about the plight of neglected Americans. As a physician, he provided access to medical care to underserved communities.  As a soldier, he demonstrated valor and sacrifice as he fought to protect our liberties. Dr. Hector P. Garcia never wavered in his commitment to the United States Constitution and equality for all.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

SENATOR HINOJOSA ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR NEW TXDOT PROJECTS IN PHARR DISTRICT

AUSTIN, TX — Today, the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) approved more than $135.7 million in new authorization for construction projects in Hidalgo County as well as $23.1 million in funding adjustments for previously approved projects. The Commission also approved $30.7 million in increased funding for a total of $88.9 million to upgrade US 281 in southern Brooks County to interstate standards. The projects are included in the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) 2021 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) adopted unanimously by the Commission earlier today. The UTP includes all transportation projects that TxDOT is developing for construction over the next ten years and guides the development of those projects.

The following are some of the newly authorized projects and funding adjustments approved for Hidalgo and Brooks Counties:

  • $96 million for Phase 1 of the International Bridge Trade Corridor (IBTC) from 365 Tollway and FM 493 to IH 2. (New Authorization)
  • $30.7 million in increased funding to upgrade US 281 in southern Brooks County to interstate standards.
  • $5.5 million to widen SH 364 in Mission from FM 2221 to FM 676 (New Authorization).
  • $11.1 million in increased funding to widen FM 676 in Alton from SH 107 to Taylor Rd.
  • $12 million in increased funding to widen FM 676 in Alton from SH 364, East to SH 107.
  • $19 million to widen FM 2061 in McAllen from Bus 83 S to Hall Acres Rd. (New Authorization)
  • $9.2 million to widen FM 3362 in Pharr from Bus 83 S to SH 495. (New Authorization)

Additionally, the Commission also approved $30 million in Rider 11(b) funds, which as Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee I have secured in the budget to fund border infrastructure projects, and $46 million in Coordinated Border Infrastructure funds. These funds will be used for the expansion of the Anzalduas Port of Entry to make improvements to southbound inspection facilities and construct northbound facilities to enable loaded and empty commercial traffic in both direction. The funds will also be used for SH 365 to reduce congestion on Cage Blvd and serve traffic traveling from the international bridges and trade zones.

These projects adopted in the 2021 UTP are in addition to construction projects currently underway including the $303 million Pharr Interchange reconstruction project, $46 million Bicentennial Project in McAllen, and the $155 million US 83 La Joya Corridor project.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“As we continue dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic, we must also move forward with investing in our transportation infrastructure. Infrastructure is key to continue the economic growth of the Rio Grande Valley and to help us rebound quickly from the economic downturn. I appreciate the Texas Transportation Commission’s unanimous vote today to approve the 2021 Unified Transportation Program.

The RGV legislative delegation has been working closely with the Commission, TxDOT leadership, and RGVMPO, including Chairman and Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, who played a key role in prioritizing the IBTC project. Together, we will work to make our priorities known and to continue advocating for additional investments in transportation infrastructure projects in South Texas. The newly authorized projects and increased funding in the 2021 UTP will greatly help our transportation needs in the Rio Grande Valley.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

TEXAS TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION APPROVES 2020 UTP INCLUDES PROJECTS IN CORPUS CHRISTI DISTRICT

AUSTIN, TX — Today, the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) met and took action on items that benefit Nueces and Jim Wells Counties. The projects are included in the Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) 2021 Unified Transportation Program (UTP) adopted unanimously by the Commission earlier today. The UTP includes all transportation projects that TxDOT is developing for construction over the next ten years and guides the development of those projects.

The Commission unanimously approved the 2021 Unified Transportation Program which includes the following projects:

Nueces County:

  • $30 million to widen SH 286 in Corpus Christi from SH 358 to Horne Rd. (New Authorization)
  • $18 million to widen FM 624 in Corpus Christi from CR 73 to Wildcat Dr. (New Authorization)
  • $40 million funding maintained to upgrade SH 286 to freeway standards in Corpus Christi from FM 43 to South of FM 2444.
  • $35 million funding maintained for freeway ramps at SH 358 in Corpus Christi from Nile Drive to Staples St.

Jim Wells County

  • $90 million funding maintained to upgrade US 281 in Alice to freeway standard from Business 281R N to Business 281R S.
  • $25 million funding maintained to upgrade US 281 in Alice to freeway standards at US 281 at CR 116 & 117 intersection.

These projects are in addition to the ongoing $1 billion Harbor Bridge replacement project, the $50.7 million SH 358 (SPID) eastbound ramp reversal in Corpus Christi, the $118 million US 77/I 69 Driscoll Relief route, and the $72 million for the US 281 interstate upgrade/relief route in Premont in Jim Wells County.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“As we continue dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic, we must also move forward with investing in our transportation infrastructure. Infrastructure is key to continue the economic growth of the Coastal Bend and to help us rebound quickly from the economic downturn.  I appreciate the Texas Transportation Commission’s unanimous vote today to approve the 2021 Unified Transportation Program.

The Coastal Bend legislative delegation has been working closely with the Commission and TxDOT leadership to make our priorities known and to continue advocating for additional investments in transportation infrastructure projects in our region. Our efforts have led to more than $1 billion in ongoing construction projects in the region and with the additional projects authorized today, the Commission and TxDOT leadership continue to show their support and commitment to Corpus Christi and the counties in TxDOTs Corpus Christi District. These state investments create jobs, strengthen our economy, and advance our transportation infrastructure for future growth.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, and Texas Ports.

TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION AWARDS LOCAL PARK GRANTS FOR THE CITIES OF EDINBURG AND PALMVIEW

AUSTIN — Today, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved Local Parks Grants for the City of Edinburg’s Chapin Road Hike-and-Bike Trail and the City of Palmview’s Nature Park. Funding for this grant program comes from a portion of the state sales tax attributable to sporting goods and from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund Stateside Assistance Program.

The City of Edinburg was approved for $606,617 to develop the Chapin Road Hike-and-Bike Trail. The grant money will go towards a 1.15-mile long hike-and-bike trail; 25 solar lights; 6 benches; parking lot extension providing 30 additional spaces along with ADA ramps; engineering services; and an irrigation and landscaping system, including native trees and landscaping around the pond for safety.

The City of Palmview will receive $300,000 for the development of Nature Park. The grant money will go towards the acquisition of 10 acres of land and recreational facilities such as paved trails (typically used for walking and jogging) and unpaved trails (primarily for mountain biking and nature hikes). The project will also include a basketball court, playground, adult (bench) swings, picnic units, sheltered benches, and exercise stations. Typical support elements such as parking, solar lighting, and drip irrigation will be included.

As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Hinojosa worked to secure over $36.1 million in state funding for Local Parks Grants for the 2020-21 biennium.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“I am pleased that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved grants for park improvements in both Edinburg and Palmview. These funds will help these growing cities meet the recreational needs of their communities and improve the quality of life for their residents.

Local parks are a vital part of creating a livable community. They provide a number of benefits, such as offering a gathering place for families and friends of all ages and economic status and enhance area property values. Local parks also help contribute to the physical, social, and mental well-being of its residents. I applaud Edinburg and Palmview officials for applying for these grants and for their efforts in improving their respective communities.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committees on Redistricting and Texas Ports.

DEL MAR COLLEGE AND ISDS AWARDED OVER $1.1 MILLION FROM THE JOBS & EDUCATION FOR TEXANS GRANT PROGRAM

AUSTIN — The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has awarded 5 grants totaling $1,132,275 through the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant program to Del Mar College and multiple independent school districts within Senate District 20 for programs that support career training for high-demand occupations.

The JET grant program annually provides grants for equipment to eligible education institutions to defray the costs associated with developing career and technical education programs or courses leading to a license, certificate, or post-secondary degree. JET recipients must use equipment to train students in high schools and community colleges for jobs in high-demand occupations or emerging industries.

As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Hinojosa was instrumental in the legislature’s decision to appropriate the $16 million to the program for the 2020-2021 biennium. In 2015, Senator Hinojosa authored and passed Senate Bill 1351, which transferred oversight of the JET grant program from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts to the TWC. The transfer helped ensure the state-funded program is a priority and bolster the TWC’s capacity-building mission to prepare Texans for today’s workforce.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“I want to congratulate our JET recipients in Senate District 20. For many years, I have championed legislation and supported funding for initiatives such as the creation of the JET grant program. The grants will help our students get the essential technical skills and help put Texans back in the workforce in today’s job market. As employers continue to require more than a high school diploma, employers are working together with high schools and community colleges to help meet the demands of the 21st century workforce.”

The Jobs and Education for Texans grant recipients from Senate District 20 are:

  • Del Mar College – $283,381 – The grant will help purchase and install equipment to provide 414 students with training in the occupation of registered nurse.
  • Corpus Christi ISD – $284,976 – The grant will help purchase and install equipment to provide 680 students with training in the occupation of licensed practical and licensed vocational nurse.
  • La Joya ISD – $247,126 – The grant will help purchase and install equipment to provide 130 students with training in the occupation of welder, cutter, solder and brazer.
  • Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD – $269,624 – The grant will help purchase and install equipment to provide 140 students with training in the occupation of automotive service technician and mechanic.
  • San Diego ISD – $47,168 – The grant will help purchase and install equipment to provide 76 students with training in the occupation of electrical and electronical engineering technician

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committees on Redistricting and Texas Ports.