Texas Border Business
The City of McAllen and Quinta Mazatlán celebrated a major milestone in the construction of the Center for Urban Ecology marking the completion of the building’s structural framework. This $76 million state-of-the-art facility will serve as a regional hub for environmental education, sustainability, and conservation efforts.
The Center for Urban Ecology, located on the grounds of Quinta Mazatlán, will provide innovative programming, research opportunities, and interactive exhibits designed to connect the community with nature and promote environmental stewardship.
“The Topping Off Ceremony signifies an important step toward completing this world-class facility that will inspire and educate future generations about the importance of conservation and sustainability,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. “McAllen is proud to lead the way in environmental education, and the Center for Urban Ecology will be a resource for the entire Rio Grande Valley and beyond.”
Designed to be a model of sustainability, the center will feature green building practices, native landscaping, and cutting-edge technology to highlight best practices in urban ecology. The facility will provide hands-on learning opportunities for students, educators, and researchers while enhancing McAllen’s commitment to environmental awareness and eco-tourism.
Through a partnership with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), the Center for Urban Ecology will expand educational opportunities for university students, providing hands-
on research experiences, internship programs, and courses focused on urban ecology, sustainability, and environmental science. This collaboration will enhance higher education pathways in STEM fields and create new opportunities for faculty-led research and community engagement initiatives.
“The Center for Urban Ecology represents an incredible opportunity to expand environmental research and education in the Rio Grande Valley. Through this partnership, UTRGV students and faculty will engage in hands-on learning, cutting-edge research, and impactful community outreach,” said UTRGV President Dr. Guy Bailey. “We are proud to collaborate with the City of McAllen and Quinta Mazatlán to create a hub for sustainability and conservation that will benefit our region for generations to come.”
The expansion estimates to have an economic impact of $448.7 million to the local economy; is projected to support 1,013 jobs; generate $132.2 million in labor income; add $207.6 million in GDP; and contribute $18.1 million in state and local taxes.
“This project represents a vision for the future—one where urban development and nature coexist in harmony,” said McAllen City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “The Center for Urban Ecology will serve as a catalyst for education, conservation, and sustainability in our region.”
The Topping Off Ceremony is a tradition in construction that marks the placement of the final beam, symbolizing progress and celebrating the collaborative efforts of city leaders, architects, engineers, and builders working to bring this landmark project to life. The event will include remarks from city officials, project partners, and stakeholders who have played a crucial role in making this vision a reality.
Partners of the project include: Friends of Quinta Mazatlán; Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-20; the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley; Texas Parks & Wildlife Department; McAllen Development Corporation; McAllen Public Utility; McAllen Transit Park & Ride; Federal Transit Administration; Economic Development Initiative; Hidalgo County: Judge Richard Cortez, Pct. 1 Comm. David Fuentes; Pct. 2 Comm. Eddie Cantu; Pct. 3 Comm. Everardo “Ever” Villarreal; Pct. 4 Comm. Ellie Torres.
Sponsors of the project include: Vantage Bank Texas; James W. and Kathleen C. Collins Family Foundation; Loring Cook Foundation; H-E-B; Val LaMantia and Family; Karen and Phil Hunke; Becky and John Gerling; Patti and Sam Snyder; Margie and Bob McCreery; Alejandra and Daniel Vela; and McAllen Independent School District.
The City of McAllen and Quinta Mazatlán invite the community to follow the progress of the Center for Urban Ecology as it moves toward completion in spring of 2026.
