BCIC to invest $2.4 million in eight new quality of life initiatives

3 months ago 99

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation has announced the approval of eight quality of life projects totaling $2.4 million that it feels will be “transformative.”

Among the projects is one championed by the Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts that will allow for online streaming for Brownsville’s local radio station, KXIQ 105.1. The society will receive $115,650 to purchase new equipment that will upgrade of the station’s broadcasting abilities.

Cori Peña, BCIC’s president & CEO said the investment reflects the BCIC’s commitment to enhancing Brownsville’s quality of life and economic prosperity. She described her community as vibrant.

Peña said that over the past year, BCIC has made significant progress in fulfilling its mission to improve the quality of life for Brownsville residents. She pointed out that since October 2023, the BCIC board of directors has approved the allocation of $5,527,977 towards 16 quality of life projects to begin this year. She said this amount represents 76% of the $7,293,855 sales tax collected in FY 2023.

“We are incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made over the past year. We are investing in our community, encouraging growth, and paving the way for our community to be happy and live a prosperous future. Together, we are making Brownsville a better place to live, work, play, and thrive,” Peña said.

Here is a list of the eight approved quality of life projects:

1 – Adapted Sports League for Children with Special Needs – Down by the Border – $50,000: This project involves the creation of an adapted sports league for children with special needs. The aim is to provide an inclusive and supportive environment for physical activity and social engagement. The league will offer activities such as baseball, basketball, and more.”

2 – Gather at the Gardens – Brownsville Wellness Coalition – $338,940: This project aims to promote urban farming and community gardens, fostering healthy food habits and lifestyles.

3 – Outdoor Learning Garden Phase 2 – Children’s Museum of Brownsville – $51,000: Funding for the installation of a fence to expand the existing outdoor learning garden.

4 – Amelia Earhart Climber Exhibit at the Children’s Museum of Brownsville – $400,000: This funding is for a custom-designed climber structure with themed interactive elements that encourage physical activity, STEM education, and historical awareness. It has been approved to offer enriching educational experiences for the youth.

5 – Online Streaming for Brownsville’s Local Radio Station KXIQ 105.1 – Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts – $115,650: This funding will be used to upgrade the local radio station’s broadcasting abilities by purchasing new equipment for KXIQ.

6 – Expansion of Therapy Services at Moody Clinic – $432,425: This funding is for infrastructure improvements at the site to allow for the expansion of services for 250+ special needs children on a waiting list who require speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. It will also allow the organization to hire additional staff to meet the increase in services.

7 – High Ropes Adventure Attraction at IDEA Public Schools – Camp RIO – $593,315: The funding will be used for the High Ropes Adventure, the first of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley, to offer residents and visitors a unique outdoor educational experience at Camp RIO.

8 – “Brownsville on the Move Exhibit” – Brownsville Historical Association – $420,929: $420,929 has been allocated for the purchase and installation of a new interactive children’s exhibit for the Simon Celaya Gallery as part of the “Brownsville on the Move – A New Vision for the Old City Cemetery” project.”

Additional Projects Approved for FY 2024

In addition to the recently approved projects, Peña said BCIC also recently announced a $2.9 million investment in several other “significant” quality of life initiatives. Namely:

The Downtown Brownsville Master Plan will serve as a visionary blueprint for economic growth and cultural exchange in the Historic Downtown area.

The Brownsville Parks Master Plan establishes guidelines for public space uses and future park developments.

The Musco Lights Replacement Program will retrofit existing lights with LED technology at Oliveira Park and Gonzalez Park.

The Tiny Forest Initiative aims to enhance biodiversity alongside the West Rail Trail by planting 150 plants and trees.

The construction of new park restrooms will provide modern, accessible facilities at Gonzalez Park.

Furthermore, Peña said BCIC is committed to the redevelopment of La Posada Park in fiscal year 2025, promising to make it a staple of leisure and recreation.

Moving forward

Peña said BCIC has placed a strong emphasis on community engagement by actively seeking input from residents. She said this collaborative approach has been crucial in recent community input initiatives aimed at developing a comprehensive strategic plan for the next decade. Moving forward, Peña said, BCIC remains committed to transparency, community involvement, and the successful implementation of projects that benefit all Brownsville residents. “An open invitation is always extended to participate in upcoming board meetings and events in order to continue shaping the future of the city.”

About BCIC

The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) is an economic development organization “dedicated to connecting people, organizations, and economic resources to elevate the quality of life in Brownsville.” For more information about available programs, visit www.brownsvillecic.com.

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