Completed in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Phase 1 enhancements include benches, picnic tables, shaded gathering areas, and interpretive signage designed to increase comfort, learning opportunities, and meaningful engagement with the landscape. Future phases will include the installation of a vault restroom and a wildlife pond, further strengthening the tract as a welcoming,community-centered space.

More than a set of improvements, this effort represents a broader shift: community leaders organizing, building relationships, and working alongside institutions to influence how public lands are designed, accessed, and experienced.

In a region where outdoor infrastructure has not always kept pace with community growth, Latino leaders stepped forward to lead the way. Through sustained engagement– organizing cleanups, activating youth and faith communities, and building partnerships–leaders transformed a shared vision into collective action

“The Lower Rio Grande Valley is home to strong Latino leaders who are shaping the future of conservation in their communities,” said Maite Arce, President and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “When we invest in leadership and bring people together, we create the conditions for communities to influence how public lands are designed and experienced. This is how we build spaces where families feel a sense of belonging–and where future generations see themselves as stewards.” 

The project was spearheaded by Armando and Luz Vera, members of Hispanic Access Foundation’s Por La Creación Faith-Based Alliance, and reflects a multi-year effort grounded in faith, stewardship, and community leadership.

“It is very inspiring to be able to work with our community to increase access to nature where they can gather, learn, and enjoy God’s creation,” said Armando Vera. “This milestone is an example of how much we can accomplish by partnering with community leaders, government officials, and organizations like Hispanic Access Foundation, and it proves that when communities lead with vision and persistence, lasting change happens.”

The celebration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, mariachi music, a guided hike and trail cleanup, and arts and crafts activities for children. Local and national government officials and partners joined the celebration, reflecting the strength of collaboration across community leaders, organizations, and public agencies.

This milestone reinforces a clear message: public lands belong to all. Lower Rio Grande Valley families are caretakers, partners, and co-creators of a shared vision for the future of these landscapes.