Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Awarded $1.18 Million Community Greening Transformation Grant from Texas A&M Forest Service
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is proud to announce that it has been awarded a historic $1,181,666 Community Greening Transformation Grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service. This award underscores Pharr’s commitment to investing in green spaces, expanding its tree canopy, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The grant will fund the planting and distribution of 6,000 native trees in areas most impacted by flooding, heat, and lack of shade over the next three years. These trees will be distributed during community workshops and planting events, where residents will also receive tree care training to help maintain and grow Pharr’s tree canopy for years to come.
“This grant was created to help communities expand their tree canopy growth in vulnerable areas most impacted by flooding, heat, and places with a lack of shade,” said Remy Vargas, Urban Ecologist for the City of Pharr. “This grant allows us to invest in Pharr’s environmental future and will help us improve the quality of life for our residents,” he added.
The Community Greening Transformation Grant is one of the largest categories within the 2025 Community Forestry Grants program, which awarded $4 million across 18 Texas municipalities to support projects that enhance urban forests, green spaces, and community engagement.
Pharr Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez emphasized the city’s longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, noting recent beautification projects, park enhancements, and tree planting efforts.
“This is a historic investment in Pharr’s environmental future,” said Mayor Hernandez. “Pharr is a city that plans for the next generation, and these funds will allow us to expand our green spaces, create healthier neighborhoods, and strengthen our resilience against flooding and extreme heat. We are proud to lead the way in sustainability, and this grant will leave a lasting impact for decades to come.”
The grant application was the result of a collaborative effort between Pharr Grants Management and Community Development (GMCD), Pharr Parks & Recreation, and the Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, the team identified neighborhoods most in need of tree canopy based on factors like flooding risk, extreme heat exposure, and limited shade.
“This project truly reflects the power of collaboration,” said Elizabeth Diaz, Director of Pharr Grants Management and Community Development. “By working closely with Parks & Recreation, the Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee, Texas A&M Forest Service, and leveraging GIS technology, we were able to strategically pinpoint areas where new trees will have the greatest impact for our community.” She added, “These funds will allow us to expand planting beyond schools and directly at our parks and neighborhoods across the city.”
Carlos Garcia Patlan, Community Ecologist with the Texas A&M Forest Service, added, “We are very happy to be working on these projects with the City of Pharr, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate as the city rolls out this new initiative.”
The City of Pharr thanks the Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee, Pharr Parks & Recreation, the Grants Management and Community Development Department, Texas A&M Forest Service, and the entire community for their dedication to keeping Pharr green, beautiful, and resilient for generations to come.
For more information about the Texas A&M Forest Service Community Forestry Grants, or to view the press release, click here.
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a special called meeting on Monday, August 11, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Awarded Community Greening Transformation Grant from Texas A&M Forest Service
The Pharr City Commission proudly approved a resolution accepting the Community Greening Transformation Grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service, awarding the City of Pharr Parks & Recreation $1,181,666. “This grant was created to help communities expand their tree canopy growth in vulnerable areas most impacted by flooding, heat, and places with a lack of shade,” said Remy Vargas, Urban Ecologist for the City of Pharr. “This grant allows us to invest in Pharr’s environmental future and will help us improve the quality of life for our residents,” he added. Through the grant, Pharr will receive 6,000 native trees to plant and distribute throughout the community during workshops and planting events. Residents will also be provided with tree care training to help maintain and expand the canopy on their properties. “We are very happy to be working on these projects with the City of Pharr, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate as the city rolls out this new initiative,” added Carlos Garcia Patlan, Community Ecologist with Texas A&M Forest Service. The Community Greening Transformation Grant is one of the largest categories within the 2025 Community Forestry Grants program, which awarded grants across six categories to address community needs by expanding and maintaining the tree canopy. This initiative aims to create lasting environmental benefits, enhance green spaces, and promote community engagement in forest management. “It is such an honor to accept this grant, especially knowing how impactful this will be to our community and future generations,” shared Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. Thank you to the Keep Pharr Beautiful Committee, Pharr Parks & Recreation, the Grants Management and Community Development Department, and our entire community for championing and supporting Pharr’s green initiatives!
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Recognizes UTRGV’s 10th Anniversary
The Pharr City Commission celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) with a special proclamation. Since opening its doors in 2015, UTRGV has awarded more than 60,000 degrees and expanded its academic offerings with 42 new programs. The university has also seen a 600% increase in research expenditures and continues to break records in enrollment, retention, and graduation rates. UTRGV is recognized for its contributions to medical education with the opening of the region’s only School of Medicine in 2016 and the state’s first School of Podiatric Medicine in 2022. It is also planning the opening of the region’s first academic cancer and surgery center in 2025 and the state’s second School of Optometry in 2027. The university will make history once again this fall as it kicks off its inaugural Division I football season, the first of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley. “We are deeply grateful to the City of Pharr for the strong and meaningful partnership we’ve built over the years,” said Gonzales. “From the Pharr Global Business Hub, which strengthens binational economic development, to hosting the WAC Swimming Championship Conferences at the Pharr Natatorium, and so many other initiatives, your continued support has been instrumental as we grow and move forward,” she continued. UTRGV is ranked the #1 university in Texas by Washington Monthly and The Wall Street Journal. The City of Pharr congratulations UTRGV on this milestone as it continues to drive academic excellence, healthcare innovation, and economic impact in the region. Go Vaqueros!
Pharr City Commission Recognizes Pharr Initiative Summer Interns
The Pharr City Commission recognized 24 students who completed the 2025 Pharr Initiative Summer Internship Program. The four-week paid internship, held from July 7 to August 1, offered high school juniors, seniors, and early college students an in-depth opportunity to explore careers in municipal public service. Students were placed in departments that aligned with their interests, including administration, public works, human resources, media, and IT, where they gained valuable hands-on experience and professional skills. More than just job shadowing, the program was immersive with interns participating in staff meetings, collaborating on real city projects, and delivering final presentations to Pharr’s leadership team to showcase what they learned through their experience. “At the City of Pharr, we believe in the power of community and in giving our young leaders opportunities to learn, grow, and gain real-world experience,” said Dr. Jonathan B. Flores, City Manager. “We hope this experience inspires them as they explore and pursue their future careers.” The City of Pharr remains dedicated to empowering youth and shaping the next generation of leaders by providing meaningful, real-world experiences through programs like the Pharr Initiative, which is designed to inspire, educate, and prepare our future workforce.
City Recognizes Cynthia Garza-Reyes on Her Promotion as Deputy City Manager
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores proudly recognized Cynthia Garza-Reyes on her well-earned promotion to Deputy City Manager. Over the past decade, Garza-Reyes has played a vital role in driving the city’s growth, including leading major initiatives that secured millions in federal and state funding, improved transportation and bridge infrastructure, launched Pharr Connect, and enhanced the quality of life for residents. Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and the entire city commission joined in praising her outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication. “I want to thank you for allowing me to have this incredible opportunity,” Garza-Reyes shared. “Every day, I’m inspired to come to work, serve our community, collaborate with our talented staff, and push for meaningful, transformative change that moves our city forward.” Congratulations, Cynthia!
Pharr Earns “Best Place for Working Parents” Designation
The Pharr City Commission proudly celebrated the City of Pharr’s newest achievement: earning the Best Place for Working Parents designation. This national recognition highlights the City’s commitment to supporting its employees through family-friendly policies that also strengthen workplace productivity and satisfaction. The designation is awarded to organizations that positively impact employee attraction, retention, and performance. Congratulations to Pharr’s Human Resources team for providing the tools, benefits, and support that help our employees thrive while serving our community!
Featured Events:
Sneaker Phest – Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 11 AM – 6 PM
SneakerPhest = Heat on feet. Drip on deck. Collectibles in hand.
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025 Time: 11 AM – 6 PM Location: Jose “Pepe” Salinas Recreation Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave., Pharr, TX 78577)
Pharr Police Department to Host Pharr Night Out 2025 Featuring Family Fun, Food, and School Supply Giveaways
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is excited to host Pharr Night Out 2025 tonight, August 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Pharr Town Center, Main Event Parking Lot, located at 500 N. Jackson Rd.
This annual community event is part of the nationwide National Night Out initiative, which aims to build stronger relationships between local law enforcement and the community they serve.
Pharr Night Out is a free, family-friendly evening filled with music, food, market vendors, and fun activities for all ages. Attendees will enjoy interacting with Pharr police officers, city staff, participating in fun games and activities, and receiving school supplies.
For more information, please contact Officer Steven Guerrero at (956) 899-6729 or Officer David Treviño at (956) 369-4625.
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Pharr Night Out 2025
WHEN: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr Town Center, Main Event Parking Lot – (500 N. Jackson Rd, Pharr, TX 78577)
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Names Cynthia Garza-Reyes as Deputy City Manager
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, AUGUST 4, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr proudly announces Cynthia Garza-Reyes has been appointed as the Deputy City Manager. Garza-Reyes has served the City of Pharr for a decade and has made a lasting impact across various roles. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in spearheading regional initiatives spanning infrastructure, transportation, education, international trade, and capital improvement projects. A proud advocate for Pharr, she has been instrumental in the growth of the city.
Since 2015, she has led external affairs for the City of Pharr, and in 2024 was appointed Assistant City Manager. She has been instrumental in driving major progress, particularly at the Pharr International Bridge. Her leadership has helped secure over $450 million in federal and state funding for key infrastructure and legislative priorities. Notably, her policy efforts delivered more than $40 million in improvements to the bridge, where she continues to lead major initiatives. Under her direction, the city has experienced tremendous success in such a short period of time.
She has also established herself as a voice for the City of Pharr in the Texas State Legislature and Congress, collaborating with legislators to secure funding for projects like the I-69 expansion and the International Border Trade Corridor, while also influencing policy initiatives. Additionally, she led the creation of Pharr Connect, a pioneering first-of-its-kind internet broadband network implemented to provide high-speed, affordable internet to all Pharr families, PSJA students, and businesses. Her work on this project has helped transform its success into a national model for other municipalities.
Her journey in public service began in 2004 with United States Congressman Ruben Hinojosa (TX-15). Her dedication and leadership were evident as she managed critical policy matters in Washington, D.C., and later while serving as the District Director in South Texas, overseeing a vast constituency of 500,000 residents across eight counties. During her tenure with Congressman Hinojosa, she played a pivotal role in executing significant initiatives, notably the rollout of the Affordable Care Act in underserved communities.
Pharr City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores shared, “Cynthia has been instrumental in leading key initiatives across our organization, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the success of both our team and the community we serve. Her strategic insight, collaborative spirit, and ability to navigate complex challenges have been essential to the progress we’ve made in our ongoing transformation. I’m excited to have her step into this new leadership role, and I’m confident she will continue to excel and serve our office with distinction.”
Garza-Reyes’ leadership extends beyond professional realms as she is also an active member of various important organizations as a representative of Pharr, including the Texas Border Coalition, the Texas Department of Transportation Border Trade Advisory Committee, The PossAble Dream Adult High School, and a member of the Texas I-69 Alliance.
Additionally, she co-manages Double G Farms, a renowned Santa Gertrudis purebred cattle operation founded in 1960 by her grandfather, Gilberto Garza. Double G Farms is one of the longest-standing Santa Gertrudis operations in the Rio Grande Valley and is a staple on both the state and national levels.
“This is truly an honor, and I am proud to serve as the Deputy City Manager for the City of Pharr,” she said. “Thank you to Mayor Hernandez, Dr. Flores, the city commission, and the community for your trust and support as we continue to advance opportunities and grow Pharr.”
Garza-Reyes holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and proudly shares her accomplishments with her husband, Gabriel, and their two children, Sophia and Andres Reyes. The City of Pharr is proud of Garza-Reyes’ achievements and leadership. This promotion reflects the city’s trust in her vision and highlights her continued commitment to supporting Pharr’s growth and serving local families.
Media are invited to use the following soundbites in their coverage.
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
FREE BBQ Pit Bundle Giveaway at Pharr’s Our Pharr, Our Future Open House Event, TODAY 7/24 @ 5 PM
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr invites the community to join us for the “Our Pharr, Our Future” Open House, an interactive event where residents can engage with City of Pharr team members to discuss and provide input on the future of our community.
This FREE event takes place TODAY, Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Development and Research Center, located at 850 W. Dicker Road, Pharr, TX 78577.
“Our Pharr, Our Future” is the city’s new comprehensive plan to guide growth and development over the next decade. It will shape decisions on land use, housing, transportation, parks, infrastructure, and public services. Residents will have a chance to share their thoughts and help shape Pharr’s future.
Attendees will also enjoy a variety of fun-filled attractions for the whole family. The event will feature free paletas, moon jumps, and kid-friendly games and activities. As part of the evening’s highlights, there will also be a community raffle with exciting prizes including a grand prize BBQ pit bundle and more!
This is a great opportunity for families to come together, have a part in the future of Pharr, and enjoy an evening of food, fun, and community engagement.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: “Our Pharr, Our Future” Open House
WHEN: Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
WHERE: Pharr Development and Research Center (850 W. Dicker Road, Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, July 21, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Recognizes Employees for Completing CPM Program
The Pharr City Commission and City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores recognized nine dedicated City of Pharr employees for their successful completion of the prestigious Certified Public Manager (CPM) Program from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). The City Commission commended the graduates and highlighted their achievements as a testament to Pharr’s ongoing investment in employee development and public service excellence. The honorees included: Danny Ramirez, Jose Pena, Juan Gonzalez, Kimberly Mendoza, Luis Marin, Roland Gomez, Ruben Rosales, Sergio Alanis, and Sergio Vasquez. This rigorous program enhances the skills and knowledge of public sector professionals through comprehensive coursework focused on best practices in leadership, public service ethics, project management, and organizational development. These graduates join a respected network of public servants dedicated to delivering effective and innovative government services. “We are incredibly proud of these individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning,” said Dr. Flores. “Their hard work and dedication reflect the caliber of leadership we strive to cultivate in the City of Pharr,” he added. “I want to thank the mayor, city commission, and our leadership for pushing us in the right direction and allowing us to take this class and continue our professional development,” said Danny Ramirez, Pharr EMS Chief. Echoing the sentiment, Pharr Public Utilities Director Ruben Rosales shared, “This program provided us with valuable tools and insights. I’m eager to apply what we’ve learned across our departments and teams to strengthen our leadership and further elevate the quality of services we deliver to our community.”
Pharr Continues Steady Sales Tax Growth
The City of Pharr is proud to report continued year-to-date (YTD) growth in sales tax revenue, highlighting the community’s economic strength and resilience. As of July 2025, Pharr has experienced a 3.70% increase in YTD true growth compared to the same time last year. This means more people are shopping, dining, and doing business in Pharr, supporting local jobs and services. In previous months, the trend has remained strong. April, May, and June all reported solid YTD gains, with April seeing a 5.14% increase, May at 4.36%, and June showing a 4.27% increase. While individual monthly comparisons may fluctuate slightly, the overall upward trend is a positive indicator for Pharr’s economy.
Pharr City Commission Approves Board Reappointments
The Pharr City Commission approved the reappointment of Andres Zuniga, Carlos Ramirez, and Ruben Luna to the Board of Adjustment. The Commission also reappointed Lazaro Beas to continue serving on the Pharr Bridge Board.
Featured Events:
Our Pharr, Our Future Open House – Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5 PM to 7 PM
Ready to win the ultimate BBQ pit giveaway?
Join the City of Pharr Development Services for the Our Pharr, Our Future Open House happening on July 24th from 5 to 7 PM for a chance to win! This interactive event will give residents, visitors, and anyone who works in the city a chance to give their feedback on what services they’d like to see.
Date: Thursday, July 24, 2025 Time: 5 PM – 7 PM Location: Pharr Development and Research Center (850 W. Dicker Rd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Night Under the Stars: Kids Edition – Friday, August 8, 2025, Doors Open at 7:30 PM
Step right up for a magical Night Under the Stars – Kids Edition!
Join us on August 8th at the City Hall Amphitheater for an evening filled with live music, snacks, face painting, and fun surprises the whole family will love!
Date: Friday, August 8, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM Location: City Hall Amphitheater (200 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Bring the kiddos and enjoy a night of wonder under the stars!
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time: 11 AM – 6 PM
Location: Jose “Pepe” Salinas Recreation Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave., Pharr, TX 78577)
Want to be a vendor?
For more info, call Pharr Parks & Recreation:
Get ready for an epic showdown!
Free Books
Step right up for a magical Night Under the Stars – Kids Edition! 
