Interim City Manager Offers Updates on Skate Park Construction, Downtown Revitalization, and More

Interim City Manager, Manuel Chavez, gave one of his last informational updates before newly appointed City Manager, Shawna Burkhart takes over during September 10th's City Council Meeting.

Interim City Manager, Manuel Chavez gave one of his final informational updates as acting city manager during Tuesday, September 10, 2024’s City Council meeting. 

Before turning things over to the new City Manager, Shawna Burkhart, Mr. Chavez shared updates on current, upcoming, and recently completed projects approved by the council. 

He began with an update on the installation of solar lighting on Plaza Ave and the William S. Nixon complex, authorized by council in April 2024, stating that the lighting has arrived and the installation of two lights per block will be completed and commemorated with a ribbon cutting ceremony by the end of September. 

The following update was in regards to the completion of the shaded, outdoor volleyball court located at the American G.I. Forum Park, right on the outside fence of the Pop Word baseball field. Mr. Chavez said, “Since the project was completed and the court was opened, several organizational volleyball teams as well as citizens have taken advantage of it, and this was a much needed volleyball court, so thank you council.” 

Next was a much anticipated update on the construction of the new Del Rio Skate Park. After approval from council in March 2024 and several public design meetings, construction has begun on the skate park and is expected to finish by October 31, 2024 with a ribbon cutting event to be scheduled once the new skate park is completed. 

Followed by an update on the Downtown Revitalization Grant that was approved by council in May of 2024. The project includes 900 linear feet of sidewalk, about 100 linear feet of curb and gutter, 28 ADA ramps, and has been completed with additional lighting to come at a later time.  

The final update, as part of the “Keep Texas Beautiful” designation, the City of Del Rio hosted a cleanup event in partnership with the local Coca - Cola Southwest beverages facility, during which the city received a $1000 check that will be reinvested into community events such as the upcoming Monarch Butterfly Festival taking place on October 19, 2024.