Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres highlighted major public health, infrastructure, and quality-of-life projects during her remarks at the 2025 Hidalgo County State of the County Address, saying her team is focused on building “a stronger, more vibrant precinct.”
A milestone achievement came in April 2024 with the opening of the Hidalgo County Public Health Facility in Precinct 4. Torres called the laboratory and clinic a “groundbreaking investment” that brings specialized testing and essential care closer to residents. Next door, the county also opened the Rumaldo Cerda Jr. Justice Center, which houses Justice of the Peace and Constable offices, further centralizing critical services.
Torres emphasized expanding access to wellness and workforce programs. She noted that the Endowment Center in Precinct 4 offers nutrition education, job training, and other services aimed at strengthening families. Looking ahead, she announced that a new Community Resource Center will open in the northern portion of the precinct by 2026.
Public safety and community enhancements remain priorities. Since 2019, the Streetlight Program has improved safety in 20 neighborhoods, with three additional projects set to be completed by the end of this year. Sanitation efforts have also expanded, with the community cleanup program hosting more than 150 cleanup events since 2019 and the recent opening of a Sanitation Recovery Center to better serve rural areas.
Torres reported substantial drainage and road improvements. Since 2019, Precinct 4 has launched 44 drainage projects, completed 11 ARPA-funded projects, and initiated several in-house engineering efforts in partnership with Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1. These efforts, along with improvements to the Raymondville Drain, are “enhancing flood control across the precinct,” she said. More than 100 county roads have been paved, with 18 more scheduled through 2025.
Parks and recreation are also expanding. Torres said that since 2019, Precinct 4 has grown from one park to four fully open parks, with a new park planned for the southeast area. The precinct continues to partner with cities, school districts, and nonprofits to create inclusive and accessible recreational spaces.
Major transportation projects have also been completed, including the Trooper Moises Sanchez Boulevard, the North Alamo Road Realignment, and the Cesar Chavez Road Realignment, with funding support from TxDOT and the RGV MPO.
“We take great pride in seeing how far we’ve come in just a few years, but our work is far from over,” Torres said. “Our goal is to continue maximizing taxpayer dollars, forging strong partnerships, and ensuring that every investment benefits our community.”
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