Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Robert L. Lozano as the presiding officer of the Hidalgo County Regional Mobility Authority (HCRMA), a crucial political entity responsible for overseeing the development and expansion of transportation projects in Hidalgo County. This appointment, with a term set to expire on February 1, 2026, places Lozano at the forefront of managing key regional transportation initiatives to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the Rio Grande Valley.
The Hidalgo County Regional Mobility Authority finances, designs, constructs, and maintains transportation projects to meet the region’s growing needs. Lozano’s appointment is part of the state’s ongoing effort to strengthen local leadership in improving transportation networks, vital to economic growth and regional mobility.
Robert L. Lozano is widely recognized as a prominent businessman and community leader. As the owner and chairman of F&P Brands, Lozano has built a reputable business empire, operating Dairy Queen and Schlotzsky’s franchises throughout South Texas. Under his leadership, F&P Brands has grown to employ over 40 Dairy Queen locations across Texas and Oklahoma and establish new Schlotzsky outlets in the Rio Grande Valley.
Lozano’s entrepreneurial journey began with humble beginnings. He and his wife, Laurie Lozano, purchased their first Dairy Queen restaurant in Pharr, Texas. Through hard work, strategic investments, and a commitment to community service, the Lozanos expanded their business to include multiple nationally recognized restaurant brands, including Cinnabon and Schlotzsky’s. Today, F&P Brands stands as a South Texas business landscape pillar, driven by a core philosophy of “Food and People,” reflecting the Lozano family’s focus on excellent service and community involvement.
Beyond his success in the restaurant industry, Robert Lozano has long been a key figure in the economic development of the Rio Grande Valley. He currently serves as chairman of the Greater State Bank, where his expertise in finance has helped guide regional economic growth. Previously, Lozano held prominent positions on various boards, including the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas San Antonio Branch, where he contributed to discussions on regional economic conditions.
Lozano’s leadership extends into numerous other civic and professional roles. He is a former board member of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation, Alamo Bank of Texas, and International Bank of Commerce, and he has served as president of the Pharr and McAllen Chambers of Commerce. His commitment to community service is also evident in his work as a co-founder of the Lozano Family Foundation and his involvement with the Good Samaritan Community Services, which assists underserved populations in the Rio Grande Valley.
Governor Abbott’s appointment of Lozano as the presiding officer of the Hidalgo County Regional Mobility Authority signals confidence in his ability to lead critical infrastructure projects. Lozano’s business and civic engagement track record positions him to address the transportation challenges facing Hidalgo County as the region continues to grow. Lozano will play a pivotal role in driving the county’s development and enhancing mobility for its residents and businesses by overseeing the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation projects.
In his new role, Lozano is expected to leverage his vast experience in business, economic development, and community service to steer the HCRMA toward impactful and sustainable growth. His leadership is anticipated to foster more robust transportation networks essential for the region’s continued economic progress.
With this appointment, Robert L. Lozano reaffirms his long-standing dedication to improving people’s lives in South Texas. His contributions as an entrepreneur and a community leader underline his commitment to the region’s prosperity.
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Lozano to replace S. David Deanda, Jr., as the Hidalgo County Regional Mobility Authority (HCRMA) presiding officer. Deanda previously held the position until his term expired, and Lozano will now serve until February 1, 2026.
As presiding officer, Lozano will oversee the authority’s efforts to finance and manage transportation projects to improve mobility and infrastructure in Hidalgo County. His extensive experience in business and community leadership, including his role as chairman of F&P Brands and his involvement with various economic development entities, positions him well to lead the HCRMA into its next phase.
