Harlingen invites feedback for city park renovation plan

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Harlingen Parks and Recreation is now applying for grant money to improve city parks.

In order to acquire those funds, they are looking to communicate with the public.

“We’re going to get the city commission’s input and then eventually, we’re going to have to go out and get the public’s input," said Javier Mendez, Harlingen Parks and Recreation Director.

One area at the top of the list is Gutierrez Park, which city officials and those working around the park say is known for prostitution, drug use and homelessness.

"We've had customers that have decided not to come to our business or have stopped coming to our business because of the proximity to the park and the people that frequent the park," said Valley Beauty Supply worker Matthew Lee.

Mendez says the park could benefit from an upgrade and security improvements.

“We do have homeless people go there, and so, how do we move those people elsewhere, right? Is there something that we can do? Is there somewhere that they can go? Do we have to fence it? Just stuff like that. So those are some of the things we’re definitely going to look at," he said.

The money for the upgrades would come from three Texas Parks and Wildlife grants the city has applied for.

According to Commissioner Daniel Lopez, this is not the first time they have applied for these grants.

“We’re constantly applying for different projects. We’ve been blessed that we were successful with the Victor Park one we received a $750,000 grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife," said Lopez.

They have to wait at least 3 to 4 months before they hear back. Harlingen Parks and Recreation says their meeting with the public will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Friday at Harlingen City Hall.