Rep. Cuellar Secures $7.5 Million Authorization to Support Water Infrastructure in Starr County

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) secured a $7.5 million authorization to support water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in Starr County, along with new flood risk studies for the cities of Roma and Escobares. The provisions were included in the Water Resources Development Act of 2026 (WRDA 2026), which passed in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on Tuesday, July 14. The authorization could support upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure, expanding water capacity and improving the reliability of local water systems. “Starr County families deserve reliable water service and real protection from flooding. WRDA 2026 is a meaningful step toward both,” said Congressman Cuellar. “The authorization will help support critical water infrastructure improvements in Starr County, while the flood studies are an important first step toward addressing long-standing flood risks in Roma and Escobares. I’ll continue working to move these provisions through final passage and secure the funding needed to bring them to fruition.” WRDA 2026 also includes several other TX-28 priorities, including expanded eligibility for Rio Grande Basin watershed and water quality programs, increased shoreline erosion protection opportunities for Rio Grande border counties and a higher authorization ceiling for the Corps’ Lakes Program. ###