In State of City Address, Sepulveda focuses on Harlingen’s growth, recent flooding and port expansions

HARLINGEN, Texas – Mayor Norma Sepulveda delivered the 2025 State of the City address this past Thursday at the Harlingen Convention Center focused on the city’s economic state, recent flooding events and the expansion of the Valley International Airport and the Port of Harlingen.

Harlingen’s Economic Development Corporation has created over 1,065 jobs and recruited businesses that have brought more than $39.5 million in capital investment in the past three years, Sepulveda said. The city currently has $16 million in commercial construction projects such as shopping plazas and retail developments, she said.

“Through smart planning conservative budgeting and bold leadership, we have built the strongest financial foundation in our city’s history,” Sepulveda said.

As well, sales tax revenue in the city has increased 7.7% as a reflection of local spending, she said. At the same time, Sepulveda said the city has reduced its tax rate by a 12% cut of 7.4 cents.

City Commissioner District Two, Daniel Lopez spoke about the Harlingen Detention Pond, a drainage system that will begin reconstruction after the flooding that occurred in March.

“This April, the commission reaffirmed its strong commitment to infrastructure allocating over $4 million for additional drainage equipment including high-capacity pumps specifically targeted for our most vulnerable neighborhoods.”

Lopez said the design phase for the project on Fifth and Seventh Street is complete. The project plans to cover areas such as Westgate, White Oaks, Pelican’s Landing, Spanish Acres, Secluded Acres, Valencia and Lazy Palm subdivisions.

Furthermore, the mayor introduced District One Commissioner, Ford Kinsley to speak about the Valley International Airport. The airport completed a 9,400 feet runway extension in June 2024, a $32.5 million project. Now, the city is exploring alternative options for the airport to continue expanding.

“Valley International Airport will soon launch a comprehensive airport master plan to guide growth over the next 20 years. This plan will include improvements to terminals, cargo facilities and airfield infrastructure all shaped by input from stakeholders and our community,” Kinsley said. 

The airport’s control tower is being reconstructed at the moment, Sepulveda said. The new reconstructed “$25 million facility” is to be completed by 2026, the mayor said.

Sepulveda also announced that the Port of Harlingen received a federal grant of $78,000 for resiliency and an asset management plan that will focus on climate readiness, maintenance preparedness and supply chain opportunities.

“These achievements, they’re not just bullet points on a list, they represent our commitment to building a healthier, more connected and more vibrant community and none of it stands alone,” Sepulveda said. “It’s all part of a broader vision where economic growth, public health and quality of life move forward together.”

Editor’s Note: Here, below, is a video recording of the 2025 Harlingen State of the City Address. Credit: City of Harlingen.

The post In State of City Address, Sepulveda focuses on Harlingen’s growth, recent flooding and port expansions appeared first on Rio Grande Guardian.