Mercedes businesses see boost from EDC sign program

MERCEDES, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Mama Maria's Restaurant has been a destination for authentic Mexican food since 2023.

Though its bright orange exterior reads 'Mama Maria's Restaurant' in big white letters, owner Bernabe Rios says many people drive by his restaurant without knowing it exists.

That was until Rios signed up for the Mercedes Economic Development Corporation's Signage Improvement Program.

Now his business has a tall neon sign that stands outside and attracts customers driving by.

"I've been getting a lot of compliments from my customers. They say it looks nice. It's a whole different thing," Rios said. "They used to tell me, 'I didn't know it was open.' now it's like 'oh there's a restaurant down here'."

The Mercedes EDC has been helping local businesses get new signs for the past two years.

Their budget allows for $70,000 per year to go towards beautifying the city.

EDC Board President Marcos Garcia said their program has invested over $125,000 in new signs.

"It allows them to shine a little brighter, people can see their businesses a little more," Garcia said.

The program limits each business to $4,500 for new signs.

If their sign costs more than that, the business has to cover the cost, but Garcia said they've been able to keep all their signs under the allotted $4,500 budget.

Rios said it's an opportunity that brings more customers through his doors and shines a light on Mercedes.

"People who see a sign say they didn't know it was there, so it makes Mercedes better," Rios said.