Texas Border Business
San Antonio, Texas- The North American Development Bank (NADBank) and the Cameron County Drainage District No.6 (CCDD No.6) celebrated the signing of an US$11.3-million loan agreement in the form of Unlimited Tax Improvements Bonds, Taxable Series 2026, to support the expansion of stormwater drainage that will reduce flooding risks for nearly 4,000 low- to moderate-income households in northwestern Cameron County, Texas.
The loan was signed by NADBank Managing Director John Beckham and District Board President Josh Ruiz. With recent flooding events and hurricane season underway, investments in stormwater drainage infrastructure are especially important for communities located near the Gulf Coast like Cameron County.
“NADBank is pleased to partner with Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 to finance critical stormwater infrastructure that will improve drainage capacity, strengthen system reliability and reduce flood risk for residents,” said John Beckham, NADBank Managing Director. “This project reflects our commitment to invest in long-term infrastructure that supports safer, more resilient communities and enhances quality of life across the region.”
Due to the flat topography and low infiltration of this area, the county remains especially flood prone. The project will strengthen stormwater management across approximately 8.1 square miles and is designed to improve both gravity drainage and controlled pumping capacity during extreme weather.
“This ceremonial signing marks a significant milestone for Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 and the communities we have proudly served since the District’s creation in 2021. Through our partnership with NADBank, we are securing critical funding to advance the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) North Levee Improvement Projects 1 through 4. These investments will strengthen regional flood protection infrastructure, enhance public safety, and support the long-term resilience and prosperity of our communities,” said Josh Ruiz, President, Board of Directors, CCDD No. 6.
“We are grateful to NADBank and our project partners for their shared commitment to improving quality of life and protecting the residents, businesses, and critical assets within Cameron County Drainage District No. 6. I would also like to extend a special thank you to the voters of Cameron County Drainage District No. 6.” continued Mr. Ruiz. “Your trust, support and confidence in the District have made this achievement possible. This investment reflects our community’s commitment to reducing flood risk and building a safer, stronger future for generations to come. Together, we are taking an important step toward a more resilient Cameron County.”
The project will also include upgrades to pump stations and drainage outfalls along the IBWC North Floodway levee system, improvements to existing drainage channels to increase system capacity and strategic land acquisition to support future drainage projects outlined in the district’s master plan.
This financing for these upgrades was approved under the Bank’s recently launched Water Investment Program, which is designed to accelerate the approval and financing of priority water projects for public or private sector project sponsors.
Finally, Texas law also supports this type of collaboration by giving water districts more flexible financing options when working with NADBank. The Texas Water Code specifically allows districts to receive NADBank financing with fewer regulatory steps and less time-consuming requirements than traditional financing methods. This streamlined approach helps reduce delays in the implementation of critical infrastructure projects—like stormwater and flood control improvements—for the benefit of local communities.
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The North American Development Bank is a binational financial institution that supports environmental infrastructure projects along the U.S.-Mexico Border. By promoting investments in water, clean energy and other critical sectors, NADBank works to improve the quality of life in border communities and advance sustainable economic growth throughout the region.
Information source: NADBank
