Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
ALAMO, Texas — Mayor J.R. Garza joined city leaders, partners, and residents for a double ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the Alaniz-Villagomez All-Inclusive Park and the City of Alamo’s second National Fitness Campaign Fitness Court.
The ceremony celebrated the revitalization of a park that city officials said had remained largely unused for more than four decades, transforming it into a recreational space focused on accessibility, health, and community gathering.
“Forty-five years ago was the last time anyone laid hands on this park,” Garza said. “For many years, it was under lock and key, and there wasn’t much going on here.”
City officials said the project represents nearly $4 million in investment and was made possible in part by a nearly $1 million grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Garza credited city staff and community partners for securing the funding and advancing the project.
The park, located at 423 N. Tower Road, includes an all-inclusive playground, walking trails, sports courts, and a range of recreational features designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities across the Rio Grande Valley.
The ceremony also marked the installation of Alamo’s second National Fitness Campaign outdoor fitness court. The city’s first fitness court was installed at Lions Park as part of an effort to expand free public fitness opportunities.
The park is named in honor of the Alanis and Villagomez families, whose historical ties to the area date back decades. Tony Alanis, speaking on behalf of his family, recalled spending time in the area during his childhood.
“I am a pre-war born, and this reminds me of the ’50s, because these trees were here then for us,” Alanis said. “Our group in the 1950s used to spend a lot of time under these trees.”
A key feature of the project is its inclusive playground design. Marisa Pecina said traditional playgrounds often exclude children with disabilities.
“Today in the city of Alamo, that ends,” Pecina said.
She highlighted several accessible features, including an inclusive merry-go-round, a 50-foot zip line with an assisted bucket seat, and an American Sign Language communication panel.
“This playground is an answer to every family who ever wondered if their community truly saw their child,” Pecina said.
City Economic Development Director Isauro Treviño said the project required a strategic effort to secure state funding, with city staff developing a competitive proposal in less than three months.
“We had to take the regional approach to guarantee the money,” Treviño said.
Treviño said the proposal emphasized amenities designed to serve residents across the region, including pickleball courts, inclusive playground equipment, and the fitness court.
“Play is universal,” Treviño said. “And playing in Alamo is universal for all kids, all ages. We don’t discriminate.”
City leaders said the redevelopment transforms a long-neglected space into a park designed to promote community wellness, accessibility, and family recreation throughout the region.
