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 thePublic 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.
City of Pharr to Host Welcome Back Ceremony for Pharr Fire Department Following California Wildfire Deployment, Tue. 1/28 @ 3:30 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is honored to host a Welcome Back Ceremony for the brave firefighters of the Pharr Fire Department, who are returning from their deployment to California to assist in combating the devastating wildfires. Pharr Fire Engine 4 and its crew were activated through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) and departed for California on January 11. The Pharr Police Department and Pharr EMS will be assisting with escorting the crew into the city.
The Welcome Back Ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at approximately 3:30 PM at Pharr City Hall.
This deployment is a testament to our firefighters’ exceptional dedication and courage, who have worked tirelessly to support communities in need.
“We take such pride in the mentality of service that our employees consistently demonstrate, and we are honored to welcome them back to our hometown after they sacrificed so much to help our California neighbors in need,” said Pharr Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez.
“We are proud to welcome them home,” he added.
The City of Pharr invites members of the media to join us at this special ceremony.
DETAILS: WHAT: Welcome Back Ceremony for Pharr Firefighters WHEN: Tuesday, January 28, 2025, approximately 3:30 PM WHERE: Pharr City Hall, 118 S. Cage Blvd. Pharr, TX 78577
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov
PRESS CONFERENCE: Pharr EMS Announces Enhancements in Prehospital Care, THURS 12/19 @ 10 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024
Pharr, Texas – Pharr EMS invites members of the media to a press conference unveiling innovative prehospital care services designed to save lives.
The conference is scheduled for 10 AM on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at Pharr City Hall, 2nd Floor City Commission Room (118 S. Cage Blvd).
Pharr EMS will now provide blood transfusions and ultrasound imaging during en route care—critical advancements that improve patient outcomes in emergencies.
This announcement underscores Pharr EMS’s commitment to delivering state-of-the-art medical services and ensuring the highest standard of care for the community.
Please RSVP to confirm attendance by contacting Michael Martinez at (956) 272-9803 or via email at [email protected].
DETAILS
WHAT: Press Conference – Pharr EMS Announces New Prehospital Care Services
WHEN: Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 10 AM
WHERE: Pharr City Hall, 2nd Floor City Commission Room (118 S. Cage Blvd, Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr PD Asking Public’s Assistance in Identifying Male Subject
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Pharr, Texas – the Pharr Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying the male subject depicted. If you have any information regarding his identity, please contact our office at (956) 402-4700 or Pharr Crime Stoppers.
The individual was observed on video walking around an apartment complex on Sugar Road near Nolana Avenue.
At one point, he approached an apartment and attempted to open the door but fled immediately upon hearing dogs barking.
We urge residents to remain vigilant, ensure all vehicle and home doors are securely locked, and take extra precautions during this holiday season.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Pharr Police Department at (956) 402-4700 or Pharr Crimestoppers at 787-TIPS or 1-800-648-TIPS.
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 272-9803 [email protected]
Pharr Police Department Invites Community to Annual Pharr Night Out on Tue., 8/6 @ 6 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 1, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is proud to take part in the National Night Out initiative and host Pharr Night Out.
National Night Out is a yearly campaign aimed at fostering relationships between police departments and the community while also making local neighborhoods safer.
This event will be filled with music, market vendors, food, family fun and FREE ADMISSION!
Pharr Night Out takes place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 6 PM to 10 PM at the Pharr Town Center (500 N Jackson Rd.)
The Pharr Police Department is excited to continue this tradition and welcome Pharr residents and surrounding communities to this event.
For more information about Pharr Night Out, please contact Officer David Trevino at (956) 856-4625.
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS:
WHAT: Pharr Night Out
WHEN: Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 6 PM to 10 PM
WHERE: Pharr Town Center (500 N Jackson Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
CONTACT: Officer David Trevino – (956) 856-4625
PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 272-9803 [email protected]
Pharr Police Department Announces Decrease in Pharr Crime Rates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024
Pharr, Texas – Chief Juan Gonzalez of the Pharr Police Department announced a reduction in the city’s crime rates based on the Uniform Crime Reporting system. Chief Gonzalez presented statistics outlining the positive trend in crime reduction.
Key Statistics: 2020 Crime Rate: 19.6%
2021 Crime Rate: 18.9%
2022 Crime Rate: 17.9%
Chief Gonzalez emphasized the department’s consistent success in steadily decreasing the crime rate by approximately 1% annually over the last three years. “We are proud to report this positive trend and remain committed to further lowering the crime rate to enhance the safety of our citizens,” stated Chief Gonzalez.
Looking ahead, Chief Gonzalez shared the department’s expectations for 2023, anticipating a continued decrease in crime by 1-2%. Detailed figures for 2023 will be released later this year.
The Pharr Police Department acknowledges the collaborative efforts of law enforcement personnel, community members, and partners in achieving this notable decrease in crime rates.
“Our Pharr PD is dedicated to keeping our citizens and community safe,” Chief Gonzalez affirmed.
Anyone in the City of Pharr can report crime or suspicious activity by calling the Pharr Crime Stopper hotline at (956) 787- 8477, or by using the City of Pharr 311 App.
