Brownsville 'riverwalk-style' project awaits agreement

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A proposed riverwalk-style development, known as the Renaissance Park Project, is being considered for Brownsville, Texas. However, it still awaits an agreement between the city and Cameron County.

The project, advocated by real estate broker Larry Jokl, aims to transform the area along the Rio Grande, starting at Alice Wilson Hope Park, into a vibrant riverfront destination. Estimated to cost between $350 to $500 million, the development would exist within a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ), a tool used by local governments in Texas to promote economic development.

"It would be a good change for Brownsville and bring tourism also," said Ruben Urbina Torres, a Brownsville resident who supports the project.

Francisco Zamora, another resident, expressed optimism, saying, "I think it's something very nice and recreational for people, so they can go out for a walk, get out, and have a bit of fun."

However, Cillia Flores voiced concerns, stating, "I would go but as far as it working, I still think there is still so much stuff that needs to be done here in Brownsville itself."

Larry Jokl emphasized the need for an interlocal agreement, explaining, "The first thing that has to happen is for the city and the county to create an inter-local agreement which coincides with the TIRZ."

The Renaissance Park Project would cover 550 acres along the Rio Grande, aiming to enhance tourism and local recreation. Residents have mixed feelings about the proposal, with some viewing it as a potential boost for the community, and others concerned about prioritizing other city needs.

Larry Jokl, the real estate broker leading the project, is optimistic about reaching an agreement soon. He mentioned that there have been some "hiccups" but remains hopeful that the development will move forward.

This is not the first time a riverfront project has been proposed for the area. A previous proposal was rejected due to a lack of agreement between the city and county.

As discussions continue, residents like Ruben Urbina Torres hope to see the Renaissance Park Project come to fruition, bringing new opportunities for tourism and recreation to Brownsville.

All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by KVEO. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by KVEO staff before being published.