SUBJECT
title
A resolution of the City of Laredo authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife under the National Park Service for the Outdoor Legacy Partnership Grant Program 2023 (ORLP) in the amount of $3,799,996 with a required Non-Federal 1:1 match, for a total estimated project cost of $7,599,992. Grant funds will be used to improve existing trails and embankments along Zacate Creek, as well the development of newly extended trails, and improve recreational accessibility to surrounding neighborhoods. Matching funds will be derived from in-kind contributions of land, private donations, land value, 2019 Bond for $1,800,000, and $2,000,000 Webb County Match contingent upon County approval.
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PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
Council approved 2023-R-023 on January 17, 2023.
BACKGROUND
In 2022, council approved the creation of the Laredo Binational River Park Working Group under Resolution No. 2022-R-107. Collaboration has been ongoing since January 2022 between local stakeholders to identify potential funding sources to develop approximately 6.2 river miles along the Rio Grande known as the Binational River Conservation Project. The presented grant opportunity has been identified as a potential funding mechanism for Project Uno - the restoration of the Zacate Creek Watershed.
VIVA LAREDO PLAN ALIGNMENT
Alignment Rating:
☑ Strong ⬜ Moderate ⬜ Weak/None
Supporting goal(s)/policy(ies):
Goal 7.6 - Expand access to parks, open space, and recreational opportunities
“Provide a system of parks, trails, and recreational facilities that promote physical activity, health, and quality of life for residents of all ages and abilities.”
(Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 7.26 - Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 7.6.2 - Expand and connect trail systems
“Develop and expand hike and bike trails to improve connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, and community destinations.”
(Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 7.26 - Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Goal 4.3 - Promote active transportation options
“Encourage walking and bicycling as viable modes of transportation and recreation through supportive infrastructure and facilities.”
(Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 4.14 - Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 6.4.3 - Protect and enhance natural resources and waterways
“Preserve and enhance creeks, waterways, and natural drainage corridors as community amenities and environmental assets.”
(Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 6.22 - Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Policy 6.2.3 - Pursue external funding for economic and infrastructure projects
“Aggressively pursue state, federal, and regional funding opportunities to support economic development and infrastructure improvements.”
(Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan, p. 6.10 - Viva Laredo City of Laredo Comprehensive Plan)
Summary of alignment:
This resolution demonstrates strong alignment with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan by advancing recreational infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and equitable neighborhood connectivity. Improvements and trail extensions along Zacate Creek directly implement Goal 7.6 and Policy 7.6.2, which call for expanded and connected hike-and-bike infrastructure to promote physical activity and community well-being.
The project further advances Goal 4.3 by strengthening active transportation networks and improving pedestrian and bicycle accessibility to surrounding neighborhoods. Enhancements to embankments and creek corridors align with Policy 6.4.3, reinforcing the Plan’s emphasis on preserving and enhancing waterways as community assets.
Additionally, securing substantial federal funding with regional and local matching contributions fulfills Policy 6.2.3, demonstrating strategic leveraging of external resources to deliver major capital improvements.
Overall, the agenda item reflects the Comprehensive Plan’s broader themes of public health, mobility, environmental sustainability, regional collaboration, and equitable access to recreational amenities, thereby justifying a Strong level of alignment with the Viva Laredo Comprehensive Plan.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends approval.
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Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: FY 2025 - 2026
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: Grant Revenue
Account #: 458-3118-324-2100
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
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