PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov

Pharr Celebrates 2025 State of the City Address with Theme of “Transformation”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2025

Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr hosted its highly anticipated 2025 State of the City Address on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Pharr EMS Headquarters. This year’s theme, “Transformation,” underscored the city’s dynamic progress and forward-thinking initiatives that are reshaping Pharr into a regional leader in innovation, trade, and community development.

The event featured Pharr native and Master of Ceremonies, Gilbert Zepeda, a national sports Emmy Award-winning producer who has worked with FOX Sports, Prime Video, and NFL Network. Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., delivered an inspiring keynote address highlighting the city’s accomplishments and vision for the future.

“Transformation is more than just change—it is about creating opportunities, empowering individuals, and setting a new standard for excellence in everything we do,” said Mayor Hernandez. “Together, we are building a city that is adaptable, innovative, and united for the betterment of our community.”

During his speech, Mayor Hernandez detailed Pharr’s remarkable milestones over the past year, including:

• Broadband Connectivity: Pharr Connect has provided over 50% of households with lightning-fast broadband in its first year.
• Infrastructure Expansion: Over $120 million was invested in improvements at the Pharr International Bridge, enhancing trade and commerce.
• Community Engagement: Hosting more than 90 free community events annually, fostering unity and cultural pride.
• Public Safety Enhancements: New initiatives like Pharr EMS’s life-saving services and expanded mental health resources.
• Transportation Improvements: More than $321 Million was invested in the reconstruction of major roads and $17.2 Million was invested in repaving city roads.

During his remarks, Mayor Hernandez emphasized the transformative impact of fostering a mindset rooted in community partnerships, regional collaboration, and leadership through comprehensive training. This forward-thinking approach has revolutionized how the City of Pharr operates, enabling the swift and efficient execution of projects that drive progress, innovation, and ultimately, transformation.

Mayor Hernandez proudly announced Dr. Anabelle Palomo, CEO of RGV College, as the recipient of this year’s prestigious Polo Palacios Service Award. This annual award honors individuals who exemplify the dedication and leadership of its namesake. Dr. Palomo was recognized for her transformative impact on higher education and her commitment to empowering students across the Rio Grande Valley.

Each year, the City of Pharr proudly gives back by donating excess funds raised from the State of the City event, made possible through generous sponsor contributions, to nonprofit and community organizations dedicated to transforming lives and enhancing the quality of life for families in Pharr and surrounding areas. This year, Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez honored the incredible talent and hard work of the theater departments at PSJA North, PSJA Southwest, and Vanguard Academy, presenting each with a $5,000 donation to support their creative programs and inspire future generations.

The last award to be presented was the Team Pharr Award, recognizing the outstanding contributions of the Public Safety Communications Department. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding Pharr’s residents and delivering swift, reliable emergency responses exemplifies the city’s mission of transformation and empowering the community.

The address concluded with Mayor Hernandez announcing the city’s transformational journey and work from 2015 to 2025. “Pharr has achieved a lifetime of successes in just a decade,” he remarked. “The state of our city is constantly TRANSFORMING… becoming a better version of the ideal vision for our city, and FOR YOU!”

The City of Pharr expresses gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and residents who contribute to its ongoing success and invites the community to look forward to another year of transformational progress.

Watch the 2025 State of the City Address Recap: