Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas — The City of McAllen has announced one of the most ambitious development projects in its history: the transformation of the long-discussed Boeye Reservoir site into a vibrant, mixed-use destination designed to attract investment, tourism, and long-term economic growth.
During a press conference, Mayor Javier Villalobos described the announcement as “a historic and momentous occasion” for McAllen. “It’s such a pleasure and honor to be here for what is probably one of the biggest projects that the City of McAllen has ever had,” Villalobos said. “We’re talking about a project that is changing McAllen — the way we are, the way we think — and we’re bringing together the public, private, and community sectors like never before.”
The initiative, also referred to as the Boeye Project, represents a $230 million investment spanning 70 acres and will feature premium condominiums, luxury hotels, new water attractions, and an expansive recreational district, along with dining, retail, and entertainment spaces. The development aims to become a significant economic engine for South Texas while redefining McAllen as a regional hub for innovation and lifestyle.
Villalobos emphasized the project’s collaborative foundation, citing decades of effort by city leaders and previous administrations. “For decades, we’ve talked about the development of the Boeye Reservoir,” he said. “Past commissions and mayors saw the vision but couldn’t bring it to life—not because they didn’t want to, but because it was difficult. Today, we’re making it happen because we’ve done it right.”
He added that McAllen’s approach reflects a commitment to integrity and sustainability. “McAllen will not do something that is not right,” Villalobos stated. “We went back, revised, and refined the plan because McAllen will never do anything that is ever going to fail. This isn’t just a project—it’s a legacy.”
According to City Manager Isaac Tawil, the Boeye project will be “a transformative mixed-use development designed to elevate McAllen’s regional tourism appeal, enhance lifestyle amenities, and drive sustainable economic growth.” Tawil noted that the city’s vision aligns with national trends toward integrated, experience-driven destinations. “We’re not just adding a new development,” Tawil said. “We’re building a destination that will redefine what it means to live, learn, and invest in South Texas.”
The premium mixed-use design will combine modern residential spaces with vibrant public attractions, positioning McAllen as a prime destination for both residents and visitors. The new recreational district, anchored by innovative water attractions and lifestyle amenities, will complement the surrounding high-end condominiums, hotels, and entertainment venues, creating a thriving, multi-dimensional destination for business, leisure, and community gatherings.
The economic projections emphasize that vision. During construction, the project is expected to support over 2,200 jobs and generate $95 million in labor income, contributing approximately $136 million to GDP and $330 million in total economic output. Once complete, the site is projected to attract 460,000 visitors annually, generating $35.6 million in visitor spending and sustaining 900 permanent jobs with $26 million in wages each year.
Tawil also highlighted McAllen’s strong fiscal foundation, citing the city’s $580 million budget and $170 million dedicated to capital improvement projects. “With record-breaking sales taxes exceeding $96 million last year, McAllen offers one of the most stable and business-friendly environments in the state,” he said. “For investors, that means confidence and opportunity.”
The project’s master plan envisions a world-class environment where modern architecture and leisure coexist. The site’s strategic location—adjacent to expressways, the McAllen International Airport, and key retail corridors—positions it as a gateway for commerce, tourism, and regional connectivity.
Villalobos reiterated that the city’s partnership model ensures transparency and accountability. “Developers will be held accountable to ensure transparency and honesty,” he said. “There will be benchmarks—and that includes the city. This project will happen the right way, with collaboration and community at its heart.”
The city officially released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for developers on the morning of the announcement, inviting qualified partners to participate in shaping McAllen’s next landmark destination. Interested parties can access full details at mcallenmeansbusiness.com and through the City of McAllen’s procurement website.
City officials emphasized that the Boeye project is designed not only as a commercial success but as a long-term community asset. “This is more than a project—it’s a promise,” Tawil said. “It’s a declaration that McAllen’s best years are yet to come.”
Villalobos concluded with optimism about what the development means for the city’s future. “This is a new McAllen,” he said. “A McAllen that dreams big, delivers bigger, and stands united in purpose. We’re not just building structures—we’re building our legacy.”
Scan the QR code or follow the link to learn more about the project:
https://www.mcallenmeansbusiness.com/en
