95-694: Weslaco ( / ˈ w ɛ s l ə k oʊ / WESS -lə-koh ) is a city in Hidalgo County , Texas , United States. As of the 2020 census the population was 41,103, Studies from 2023 show the population is 43,053 and in 2020 the estimated population was 40,160. It is located at the southern tip of Texas in the Rio Grande Valley near the Mexican border, across the Rio Grande from the city of Nuevo Progreso, Rio Bravo, Tamaulipas . Weslaco derives its name from
190-511: A Head Start Program , pre-kinder programs as well as several privately owned day care centers. Continuing education facilities located within Weslaco include South Texas College (Mid-Valley Campus), South Texas Vocational Technical Institute, and Valley Grande Institute for Academic Studies. Texas A&M operates an agricultural research center in Weslaco. The Mayor Joe V. Sanchez Public Library serves Weslaco. In addition to its book collection,
285-527: A humid subtropical climate , abbreviated " Cfa " on climate maps. It is the most easterly city in the central states of the Great Plains with a humid subtropical climate bounded by a semi-arid climate to the west, reflecting in its most shrubby vegetation . The average high in January is 71 °F (21.7 °C) and the average low is 50 °F (10.0 °C). The average high is 97 °F (36.1 °C) and
380-551: A subtropical climate . Under the Köppen climate classification , the city features a subtropical semiarid climate (BSh), featuring long, very hot and humid summers, and brief, warm winters. The city has two distinct seasons; a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. The normal monthly mean temperature ranges from 62.8 °F (17.1 °C) in January to 89.3 °F (31.8 °C) in August. The warm season
475-598: A day) are all in the southern part of the country (Table 1) [7], and the nation's poorest large metropolitan area is McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, Texas. Hidalgo County tends to vote for the Democratic Party , although there is representation of the Republican Party in some of the offices that affect the county. Hidalgo County is represented by Monica De La Cruz of Texas's 15th congressional district and Vicente González of Texas's 34th congressional district . In
570-516: A diverse wildlife population. The Quinta Mazatlan, a historic Spanish colonial mansion, is used as McAllen's wing of the World Birding Center. The McAllen Nature Center is a popular spot for bird-watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. This preserved green space offers visitors a chance to explore walking trails, climb a small hill, and has a cactus garden - all without any charge for admission. The Bicentennial Bike Path runs from Highway 83 on
665-776: A driving range. This course hosts numerous tournaments year round. Dog owners have room to run their pets at the McAllen Dog Park, which is divided into two sections. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice operates an office in McAllen. The United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas McAllen Division is located at Bentsen Tower 1701 W. Hwy. 83, Suite 1011, McAllen, Texas. The United States Postal Service operates two post offices in McAllen: McAllen Post Office, located at 620 Pecan Blvd, and
760-706: A household in the city was $ 45,568, and for a family was $ 50,184. The per capita income for the city was $ 21,726. About 22.5% of families and 25.7% of the entire population were below the poverty line , including 36.6% of those under age 18 and 21.4% of those age 65 or over. Based on the Texas Department of Public Safety's Annual Crime in Texas report and the FBI's Crime in the United States report, there were 5 murders reported during 2022. The city has been consistently ranked among
855-410: A household in the county was $ 30,134, and the median income for a family was $ 31,760. Males had a median income of $ 22,635 versus $ 17,526 for females. The per capita income for the county was $ 12,130. About 32.60% of families and 35.80% of the population were below the poverty line , including 47.4% of those under age 18 and 29.8% of those age 65 or over. The county's per-capita income makes it one of
950-572: A major portion of the Llano Grande grant and platted the West Tract in 1913. In an effort to control raids from Mexico, the United States government stationed troops along the Rio Grande in 1916. A camp was established at the Llano Grande railroad depot. This camp was located between Mercedes and the current site of Weslaco. A watchtower was constructed at Progreso by these troops. On December 14, 1917,
1045-401: A once relatively desolate area into a major agricultural center. Throughout much of the 1900s, McAllen was a rural, agriculture-based economy characterized by sporadic growth. Today, the area is transforming into a major international trade area. As recently as 1990, McAllen's unemployment rate was at 22.6%. By the end of 2005, that figure had dropped to 7.7%. However, in 2011, census.gov listed
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#17328585609061140-500: A result of the increased traffic between them. The population of McAllen was 20,005 in 1950 and 32,728 in 1960. In 1954 the McAllen–Hidalgo–Reynosa International Bridge was the number-two port of entry into Mexico. McAllen was an agricultural, oil, and tourist center in 1970, when the population reached 37,636. By the start of the 1970s, McAllen had a 200-bed hospital and a new air-conditioned high school,
1235-499: Is 91.9% Hispanic as of 2020, it is Texas' second-most populous majority-Hispanic county and the fifth-largest nationwide . It is also the largest county which is over 90% Hispanic . It is also the southernmost landlocked county in the United States, and in 2021, it was the largest county in the nation with a total fertility rate above the replacement level (at 2.13). According to the United States Census Bureau ,
1330-624: Is Joel Rivera, a former Division Chief at the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office . The United States Postal Service operates the Weslaco Post Office at 109 N Border Ave. The Texas Department of Public Safety operates the Region 3 McAllen office in Weslaco. The United States Border Patrol Weslaco Station is located at 1501 E. Expressway 83. The Sergeant Tomás Garces Texas Army National Guard Armory located at 1100 Vo Tech Dr, in
1425-417: Is a native of Weslaco, Texas. Weslaco residents can check with local providers for other specialized needs. The current City Officials are Mayor Adrian Gonzalez, Mayor Pro-Tem Letty Lopez, Commissioner Leo Muñoz (District 1), Commissioner Greg Kerr (District 2), Commissioner JP Rodriguez (District 3), Commissioner Adrian Farias (District 4) and Commissioner Josh Pedraza (District 6). The current Chief of Police
1520-484: Is bordered to the east by the city of Mercedes and to the west by the city of Donna . Interstate 2 and U.S. Route 83 pass through Weslaco, leading west 16 miles (26 km) to McAllen and east 19 miles (31 km) to Harlingen . Weslaco is 5 miles (8 km) north of Progreso and 7 miles (11 km) north of the bridge over the Rio Grande to Nuevo Progreso in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas . According to
1615-445: Is extremely long, as average high temperatures from May through September are above 90 °F (32 °C) and average low temperatures are above 70 °F (21 °C), with relatively high dew point values, resulting in higher relative humidity values and heat index values. Heat indices consistently reach over 110 °F (43 °C) during these months. Winter temperatures in McAllen and surrounding Rio Grande Valley are some of
1710-618: Is home to a wide variety of animals, including species such as the White-tailed deer , Skunk , and reptiles, crocodilians, and amphibians such as the Green Anole , Cane Toad , and American Alligator . There are many introduced species in the area such as the Brown Anole , Green Iguana , and the Monk Parakeet . Weslaco is a Winter Texan destination and a gateway between Texas and Mexico. In
1805-608: Is located in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas and is one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States . Hidalgo County is designated by the U.S. Census Bureau as the McAllen–Edinburg–Mission metropolitan statistical area , which itself is part of the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission-Rio Grande City, Texas combined statistical area with neighboring Starr County . With a population that
1900-482: Is located in the U.S. state of Texas . As of the 2020 census , its population was 870,781, making it the ninth-most populous county in Texas , and the most populous county outside of the counties in the Texas Triangle . The county seat is Edinburg and the largest city is McAllen . The county is named for Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla , the priest who raised the call for Mexico 's independence from Spain . It
1995-404: Is only 25.73 inches (654 mm). Most precipitation occurs in the wet season which occurs from April to September, with the least precipitation distinctly occurring in the dry season from October to March. As September is the peak of the north Atlantic hurricane season and tropical storms and hurricanes occasionally drop copious amounts of rainfall on the region, this month tends to be by far
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#17328585609062090-482: Is outfitted with a Heli-Pad, Level 3 Trauma Unit and 233 hospital beds. Surrounding Knapp Medical is an unofficial healthcare district featuring a concentration of physicians, medical services and pharmacies. This district draws patients from the entire Mid-Valley. There is a double board certified, fellow trained Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in Total Joint Replacement and fracture care. Dr. Michael D. Sander
2185-510: Is represented in the United States House of Representatives by Monica De La Cruz ( R - Edinburg ), of the 15th Congressional District, and Vicente Gonzalez ( D -McAllen), of the 34th Congressional District . Metro McAllen (formerly McAllen Express Transit – MET) has provided public transportation for the City of McAllen since June 1997. In the beginning, McAllen Express was administered by
2280-706: Is subtropical and humid. Temperatures range from an average low of 47 °F (8 °C) in January to an average high to 96 °F (36 °C) in July; the average annual temperature is 73 °F (23 °C). Rainfall averages 23 inches (580 mm) a year, and the growing season lasts for 320 days of the year. As of the census of 2010, there were 774,769 people living in the county. 88.0% were White , 1.0% Asian , 0.6% Black or African American , 0.3% Native American , 8.8% of some other race and 1.3% of two or more races . 90.6% were Hispanic or Latino (of any race). There were 216,471 households, and 179,668 families living in
2375-404: Is the fifth-most populous metropolitan area ( McAllen–Edinburg–Mission ) in the state of Texas, and the binational Reynosa–McAllen metropolitan area counts a population of more than 1.5 million. From its settlement in 1904, the area around McAllen was largely rural and agricultural in character, but the latter half of the 20th century had steady growth, which has continued in the 21st century in
2470-605: Is the peak of the north Atlantic hurricane season and tropical storms and hurricanes occasionally drop copious amounts of rainfall on the region, this month tends by far to be the wettest, averaging 4.74 in (120 mm) of rain. The driest month is February, with only 0.66 in (17 mm) of precipitation. Since 1941, it has snowed twice, once when the city received 1.7 in (43 mm) on December 25, 2004 . Temperatures consistently rise above 100 °F (38 °C) from June through August, with exceptionally high humidity. The highest temperature ever recorded in McAllen
2565-413: Is the primary provider of law enforcement services to the unincorporated areas of the county. The following school districts serve Hidalgo County: In addition, the county is served by the multi-county South Texas Independent School District . The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brownsville operates three PK-8th Grade schools, two lower-level elementary schools and two high schools. The Edinburg campus of
2660-555: Is well preserved and only the facade of a 15-acre nature preserve in the heart of the City of Weslaco in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas providing a haven for birds, butterflies and other wildlife that thrive among the native habitats of its Tamaulipan Thornscrub forest, orchard butterfly garden, wetlands, and ponds, according to fronteraaudubon.org. Hidalgo County, Texas Hidalgo County ( / h ɪ ˈ d æ l ɡ oʊ / ; Spanish pronunciation: [iˈðalɣo] )
2755-549: The 2012 presidential election , 70.4% voted for Barack Obama , while 28.6% voted for Mitt Romney . The last time Hidalgo County voted Republican was in the 2024 presidential election when Donald Trump won 51% of the votes, the first time the county voted for the Republican candidate since 1972 . In the 2020 presidential election, Hidalgo County saw a significant shift to the Republican Party, with Donald Trump increasing
2850-445: The 66th most populous primary statistical area of the United States as of July 1, 2022. It has the lowest per capita income of the 276 MSAs within the 50 states at $ 9,899. Its median household income is also the lowest within the states at $ 24,863. In a survey done in over 190 metropolitan areas it had the highest obesity rate of residents at 38.8 percent. Today, the states with the highest poverty rates (of over 20 million living on $ 2
2945-510: The Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council . Since 2005, Metro McAllen has been operated as a department of the city of McAllen. Metro McAllen now has 12 fixed routes and paratransit, serving residents and visitors. It operates seven days a week, from 6am–9pm Monday through Saturday and from 8am-6pm on Sunday. LRGVDC continues to operate regional buses under the name Valley Metro. The City of McAllen also operates
Weslaco, Texas - Misplaced Pages Continue
3040-481: The United States Census Bureau , Weslaco has a total area of 14.8 square miles (38.3 km), of which 14.7 square miles (38.1 km) are land and 0.1 square miles (0.2 km), or 0.49%, are water. The climate in this area is characterized by two seasons; a wet season from April to September and a dry season from October to March. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Weslaco has
3135-576: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (formerly University of Texas-Pan American ) is located in Hidalgo County. All of the county is in the service area of South Texas College . The Pecan, Mid-Valley, Technology, and Nursing & Allied Health campuses of South Texas College are located in Hidalgo County. In 2020, the total value of products produced in Hidalgo was $ 11.5 billion. In 1982, 91% of
3230-738: The Valley International Airport in Harlingen. Local public transportation is provided by Valley Metro . Public education in Weslaco is provided by the Weslaco Independent School District , Idea Public Schools, and South Texas Independent School District . There are 4 private schools: San Martin de Porres Catholic School, Valley Grande Adventist Academy, Mid-Valley Christian School, and First Christian Academy. Weslaco also has two Charter schools: Horizon Montessori and Technology Education Charter High School. The city has
3325-499: The W . E . S tewart La nd Co mpany. It was the hometown of Harlon Block , one of the Marines photographed raising the flag at Iwo Jima , and of film and television actor David Spielberg . Streets north of the railroad tracks have Spanish names, and streets south of the railroad tracks bear names in English, as a consequence of a 1921 municipal ordinance which declared that land north of
3420-520: The census of 2020 , there were 142,210 people, 45,429 households, and 34,119 families residing in the city. As of the census of 2010 , there were 129,877 people, 41,573 households, and 31,823 families resided in the city. Of the 45,862 housing units, 4,289, or 9.4%, were vacant. The racial makeup of the city was 83.9% White, 0.9% African American, 0.4% Native American, 2.6% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 10.4% some other race, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race were 84.6% of
3515-504: The poorest counties in the United States . In 2009, it was tied with Bronx County, New York for "the greatest share of people receiving food stamps: 29 percent." Las Milpas , previously unincorporated, was annexed by Pharr in 1987. The United States Office of Management and Budget has designated Hidalgo County as the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX Metropolitan Statistical Area . The United States Census Bureau ranked
3610-535: The FTZ designation offers specific cost-saving opportunities to manufacturers. Products can be brought into the FTZ duty-free. Services have recently expanded to include full logistic support services, including public warehouse services such as pick and pack, order processing, inventory control, incoming/outgoing quality inspection, and kitting. McAllen hosted the NAIA National Football Championship in
3705-645: The McAllen Downtown Post Office at 406 12th Street. The United States Border Patrol McAllen Station is located at 3000 West Military Highway. The United States Border Patrol Central Processing Center is located at 3700 W Ursula Avenue, McAllen, Texas. The 2LT Luis G. Garcia United States Army Reserve Center located at 600 S Col Rowe Blvd is home for the United States Army Reserve 961st Quartermaster Company, 461st Transportation Detachment, and 519th Transportation Detachment. McAllen
3800-698: The McAllen Townsite Company was formed by Uriah Lott, Leonidas C. Hill Sr., John McAllen (1826-1913), James Ballí McAllen (1862-1916), and John J. Young. The new community, which was named for John McAllen, had the depot nearest the county seat, Hidalgo , 8 mi (13 km) to the south. By 1911, 5,000 acres (2,000 ha) were under cultivation in East McAllen: commodity crops of cotton, alfalfa, broom corn , citrus fruits, grapes, and figs were raised. East McAllen had an estimated population of 1,000 that year, and West McAllen had ceased to exist. In 1911,
3895-494: The McAllen metro area the poorest in the nation. As of 2012, the average cost of a home in McAllen was the third-least expensive in the country, at $ 178,000, while average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment was $ 708. In 2012, the cost of living in McAllen was 16.2% lower than the national average. Since the 1980s and especially since the ratification of the North American Free Trade Agreement in 1994,
Weslaco, Texas - Misplaced Pages Continue
3990-495: The McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX Metropolitan Statistical Area as the 65th most populous metropolitan statistical area of the United States as of July 1, 2022. The Office of Management and Budget has further designated the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX Metropolitan Statistical Area as a component of the more extensive McAllen-Edinburg, TX Combined Statistical Area , the 63rd most populous combined statistical area and
4085-522: The Republican vote from 27.9% in 2016 to 41%. However, as an urban county, the shift was not as large as nearby less densely populated counties. On his third run, Trump was able to win the county by 2 points, following a trend that resulted in many Hispanic majority counties in Texas and Florida flipping red. For the Texas House of Representatives is covered by districts 39 , 40 and 41 . The Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office operates jail facilities and
4180-472: The Rio Grande Valley share of NAFTA trade increased 168% from $ 11.1 billion to $ 31.6 billion. It is estimated that there are 40 million visits per year from Mexican citizens coming to Texas for vacations and shopping trips. These people contribute greatly to the retail sales volume that occurs in Weslaco and the surrounding communities. Prime Healthcare Services , through its subsidiary Knapp Medical Center, serves Weslaco's emergency medical needs. The facility
4275-411: The Rio Grande at this point, 11 mi (18 km) southwest of downtown McAllen. McAllen is 238 mi (383 km) south of San Antonio , 158 mi (254 km) southwest of Corpus Christi , 148 mi (238 km) southeast of Laredo , 60 mi (97 km) northwest of Brownsville , and 150 mi (240 km) northeast of Monterrey . According to the United States Census Bureau ,
4370-676: The Rio Grande, brown to red clays are found. Hidalgo County is in the South Texas Plains vegetation area, which features grasses, mesquite, live oaks, and chaparral. Native plants, reduced in recent years by extensive farming, include chapote , guayacán , ebony , huisache , brasil , and yucca . Natural resources included caliche, sand, gravel, oil, and gas. Oil and gas production in 1982 totaled 98,487,211,000 cubic feet (2.7888472 × 10 m ) of gas-well gas, 139,995 barrels of crude oil, 1,101,666 barrels of condensate, and 15,784,000 cubic feet (447,000 m ) of casinghead gas. The climate
4465-452: The United States, assembled, and shipped back as finished products), the economy began to improve in Hidalgo County. McAllen sits across the border from Reynosa, a large manufacturing center. After the peso devalued, Mexico was more successful in attracting companies to run their plants in Mexico, with support operations in Texas. Border crossing is a daily event for many and is a key component in
4560-495: The United States. Poverty may play a large role in the community's health problems, as well. Over 25% of the city population was living below the poverty line during the period 2012–2016. More than 29% of the population also lacked health coverage during that time. McAllen is featured in Supersize vs Superskinny , a British television programme on Channel 4 that features information about dieting and extreme eating lifestyles. One of
4655-531: The Weslaco post office 26 panes (totalling 1,300 stamps) of the 1938 6 cent eagle airmail stamp printed in ultramarine and carmine rather than dark blue and carmine. This color error is recognized by the Scott catalog as C23c. No other examples of this color error were ever reported. Weslaco is located in southeastern Hidalgo County at 26°9′33″N 97°59′15″W / 26.15917°N 97.98750°W / 26.15917; -97.98750 (26.159130, –97.987374). It
4750-459: The area has a higher prevalence of obesity and diabetes, its rates of infant mortality , HIV , and tobacco use were lower than the national average. McAllen was the most obese metropolitan area in the country in 2012, with 38.5% of the adult population considered obese. The high obesity rate has likely contributed to area residents' poor health. More than 21% of the population has been diagnosed with diabetes , more than any other metro area in
4845-459: The arrival of Central American migrant caravans , immigration authorities were releasing a few hundred asylum seekers daily to private groups that assist them with basic needs and travel arrangements. The mayor emphasized how safe and secure the city is when U.S military troops were mobilized in the city to help the Border Patrol. Portions of the razor wire coils considered unnecessary by
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#17328585609064940-413: The average family size was 3.58. In the city, the population was distributed as 30.1% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 10.9% 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32.2 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males. For the period 2012–2016, the estimated median annual income for
5035-403: The average family size was 3.68. In the city, the population was spread out, with 31.8% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 25.9% from 25 to 44, 17.2% from 45 to 64, and 15.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.4 males. The median income for a household in the city
5130-480: The average low is 76 °F (24.4 °C) in August. The warm season is extremely long, as average high temperatures from May through September are above 90 °F (32.2 °C) and average low temperatures are above 70 °F (21.1 °C), with relatively high dew point values resulting in higher relative humidity values and heat index values. Heat index values can consistently reach over 100 °F (37.8 °C) during these months. Average annual precipitation
5225-512: The bus terminal facility in downtown McAllen, known as McAllen Central Station. Central Station serves as a hub for MET and for 14 private domestic and international bus lines. Around 60 buses depart from Central Station on a daily basis. It is centrally located in downtown McAllen at 1501 W Hwy 83. The McAllen Independent School District serves most of the city followed by the Valley View Independent School District and
5320-527: The city has a total area of 48.6 square miles (126.0 km ), of which 48.3 square miles (125.2 km ) are land and 0.3 square miles (0.8 km ), or 0.62%, is covered by water. Although McAllen is named the "City of Palms", tropical vegetation is only locally dominant. Many thorny shrubs and deciduous trees occur in the area, such as the Rio Grande ash ( Fraxinus berlandieriana ), cedar elm ( Ulmus crassifolia ), and honey mesquite ( Prosopis glandulosa ). McAllen, like much of South Texas , has
5415-599: The city were removed after troops had placed it at the border. The troops assisted by using military helicopters to carry border patrol agents to and from locations along the Mexico–United States border and by maintaining vehicles. During these border support activities, they are prohibited from law enforcement activities, such as detaining migrants or seizing drugs. U.S. military troops are prohibited from carrying out law enforcement duties . The Marine Corps Commandant General Robert Neller expressed concerns about
5510-428: The city. The population density was 2,123.1 inhabitants per square mile (819.7/km). There were 10,230 housing units at an average density of 806.4 per square mile (311.4/km). The racial makeup of the city was 14.92% White , 0.27% African American , 0.49% Native American , 1.14% Asian , 0.06% Pacific Islander , 20.93% from other races , and 2.19% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 83.76% of
5605-433: The county has a total area of 1,583 sq mi (4,100 km ), of which 12 sq mi (31 km ) (0.8%) are covered by water. The northern part of the county has sandy and light loamy soils over deep reddish or mottled, clayey subsoils . In some areas, limestone lies within 40 in (1 m) of the surface. The southern part of the county has moderately deep to deep loamy surfaces over clayey subsoils. Along
5700-513: The county. The population density was 363 people per square mile (140 people/km ). There were 248,287 housing units at an average density of 123 units per square mile (47/km ). There were 216,471 households, out of which 54.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.00% were married couples living together, 18.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 17.0% were non-families. 14.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.6% had someone living alone who
5795-747: The electric tram nature tour. The park is also available for school programs and field trips. The Valley Nature Center is a six-acre park and environmental education center that focuses on the plants and animals of the Rio Grande Valley. The City of Weslaco Parks & Recreation Department maintains six city parks, and three public swimming pools. The parks host parades, festivals, holiday programs, special gatherings, and dedications. The department coordinates cultural programs, leisure activities, and events for citizens. Perennial and summer recreation programs are coordinated with residents, athletic organizations, and schools. Weslaco has several baseball and softball leagues as well as little league and soccer. Weslaco
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#17328585609065890-479: The end of October, the highest temperature ever recorded in Weslaco was 110 °F (43.3 °C) on April 17, 1920. The lowest temperature ever recorded in Weslaco was 16 °F (−8.9 °C), on January 12, 1962 and December 23, 1989. As of the 2020 United States census , there were 40,160 people, 12,671 households, and 9,998 families residing in the city. According to the census of 2000, there were 26,935 people, 8,295 households, and 6,602 families residing in
5985-491: The first school in the nation featuring on-site power generated by natural gas -powered turbines. The tourism industry continued to expand as people traveled to the area from both Mexico and the northern United States. The population continued to grow steadily through the 1970s, and reached 66,281 by 1980. During the late 1980s, the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone was an important general-purpose foreign trade zone . At
6080-546: The focal point of economic activity has shifted from agriculture to international trade, health care, retail, and tourism. The McAllen Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) is located south of McAllen between McAllen and Reynosa. Commissioned in 1973, it was the first inland foreign-trade zone in the United States. Also, an FTZ designation site is at the McAllen Miller International Airport to facilitate air cargo needs. Under U.S. and Mexican laws and NAFTA provisions,
6175-514: The home for the C Company 3rd Battalion (Mechanized) 141st Infantry and Detachment 1, Company A, 536th Brigade Support Battalion. This armory was dedicated in honor of Weslaco native Sgt. Tomás Garces, the first Texas Army National Guard combat casualty since World War II . Private air services are accommodated by the Weslaco Mid Valley Airport . Commercial flights are available at the nearby McAllen Miller International Airport , or
6270-501: The impact of continuing border support on combat readiness for the troops. McAllen, located in southern Hidalgo County, is bordered to the southwest by Granjeno ; to the west by Mission , Palmhurst , and Alton ; to the north by Edinburg , the Hidalgo county seat ; to the east by Pharr ; and to the south by Hidalgo . The McAllen city limits extend to the southwest as far as the Rio Grande, directly north of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, in Mexico. The Anzalduas International Bridge crosses
6365-478: The irrigation company sold 30,000 acres (12,000 ha) at ninety dollars an acre to the W. E. Stewart Land Company. The town name "Weslaco" was derived from the company's name. The Stewart Company later sold the townsite to Ed C. Couch, Dan R. Couch, R. C. Couch, and R. L. Reeves. The site was surveyed and platted on September 18, 1919, by H. E. Bennett and Ed Payne, a civil engineer hired by Ed Couch and R. L. Reeves, whose partners, fearing failure, had backed out of
6460-443: The land was in farms and ranches, with 52% of the farmland under cultivation and 85% irrigated; 51 to 60% of the county was considered prime farmland. The primary crops were sorghum, cotton, corn, and vegetables; Hidalgo County led Texas counties in the production of cabbage, onions, cantaloupes, carrots, and watermelons. The primary fruits and nuts grown in the county were grapefruit, oranges, and pecans. Cattle, milk cows, and hogs were
6555-463: The late 1970s and NCAA Division II national football championship games in the 1980s. Until 2014, McAllen was home to the Texas Thunder of the independent United League Baseball , who played at Edinburg Stadium . McAllen is positioned on a major flyway, the migratory path of birds between North and South America, presenting opportunities for bird and butterfly expeditions. The landscape hosts
6650-552: The library offers computer classes and various community events. Meeting rooms and an auditorium are available. The Weslaco Museum has exhibits and hosts events for local residents. Weslaco is home to one of the nine sites of the World Birding Center in the Rio Grande Valley . The site is located within the Estero Llano Grande State Park . Visitors can take bird walks, butterfly walks, dragonfly walks, and
6745-516: The local economy. The city became a focal point for concerns about the border during the United States federal government shutdown of 2018–2019 over the Mexico–United States barrier . President Donald Trump held a briefing with the border agents at the patrol station here in January 2019. Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen also visited the Border Patrol station in March 2019. In order to deal with overcrowded facilities in 2019 resulting from
6840-407: The main show features is a weekly comparison between an overweight person and an underweight person. In the show, the overweight participant visits morbidly obese McAllen residents to find motivation for lifestyle and diet changes. The Rio Grande Valley began its rapid development with the introduction of irrigation in 1898 and the construction of the railroad in 1904. These major additions turned
6935-702: The metropolitan area. The introduction of the maquiladora economy and the North American Free Trade Association led to an increase in cross-border trading with Mexico. In 1904, the Hidalgo and San Miguel Extension (now the Sam Fordyce Branch) of the St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway reached the Santa Anita Ranch. John McAllen and his son James had donated land to the railroad to guarantee it would cross this area. On December 5, 1904,
7030-580: The most populous city in Hidalgo County . It is located at the southern tip of the state in the Rio Grande Valley , on the Mexico–United States border . The city limits extend south to the Rio Grande , across from the Mexican city of Reynosa . McAllen is about 70 mi (110 km) west of the Gulf of Mexico . As of the 2020 census , McAllen's population was 142,210, making it the 23rd-most populous city in Texas . It
7125-520: The population to 9,074 by 1930. In 1936, Hiram Garner opened the Valley Distillery, Incorporated, which produced wines from citrus juices. The town was a petroleum and farm chemurgic center with a population of 11,877 in 1940, by which time it had adopted the nickname "The City of Palms". In 1941, a suspension bridge replaced the old bridge from Hidalgo to Reynosa in Tamaulipas ; the new toll bridge
7220-399: The population. Of the 41,573 households, 46.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.2% were married couples living together, 19.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.5% were not families. About 19.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.9% were someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.10, and
7315-409: The population. There were 8,295 households, out of which 41.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.2% were married couples living together, 17.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 20.4% were non-families. 18.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.21 and
7410-464: The previous snowfall which took place during the 2004 Christmas Eve United States winter storm . In February 2021, McAllen reached record low temperatures between 10 °F (−12 °C) and 20 °F (−7 °C) and lost power, heat, and water for a week due to Winter Storm Uri . In addition to these fluke weather events, McAllen is prone to tropical storms, hurricanes such as Hurricane Dolly (2008) and Hurricane Hanna (2020) , and heatwaves. As of
7505-470: The primary livestock products. Hidalgo is the highest-producing county in the state for oilseeds and dry beans . The Southern Cattle Tick ( Rhipicephalus microplus ) is invasive here. Populations here have also become highly permethrin resistant . In 2014 the problem had become so severe in Cameron that spread here (and to other neighboring counties) was feared. A Temporary Preventative Quarantine Area
7600-495: The ratification of the North American Free Trade Agreement in 1994. In Hidalgo County, cross-border cargo and vehicular traffic have increased 345% and 36.4% respectively since the beginning of the 1990s, from 228,133 to 1,015,554 cargo trucks in 2008 and from 10.92 million to 14.9 million automobiles. US/Mexico trade crossing the international bridge in Hidalgo County increased from $ 5.0 billion in 1994, pre-NAFTA, to $ 12.56 billion in 2000 and $ 19.9 billion in 2006. From 1995 to 2006
7695-492: The safest cities in Texas. McAllen was the focus of a 2009 article in The New Yorker by Atul Gawande entitled "The Cost Conundrum", an inquiry into the factors that contribute to the cost of health care. The McAllen area had the highest taxpayer-sponsored spending per beneficiary in the United States, despite areas with similar demographics and health profiles having half the cost per recipient. The article noted that while
7790-480: The south side to Bicentennial and Trenton Road on the north side. The International Museum of Art & Science, Smithsonian affiliate and AAM-accredited museum founded in 1967, is located near the path at the corner of Bicentennial and Nolana Avenue. The Zinnia Spray Water Park is McAllen's first sprayground park. It is located at 29th and Zinnia Ave. Champion Lakes Golf Course is located on South Ware Road just south of Highway 83. The golf course has 18 holes plus
7885-516: The summer months, many travelers come to the area to visit the lower Texas coast and the beaches of South Padre Island. Many Mexican vacationers visit the Texas Valley and stay or maintain homes in Weslaco and surrounding communities. Current estimates show this company has an annual revenue of 30926590 and employs a staff of approximately 630. English: Home located at 1027 S. Texas Blvd. Weslaco, Texas, coordinates 26°8′54″N 97°59′22″W. Presently it
7980-418: The time, McAllen's main industries were retail, tourism and farming, and each was in trouble. The devaluation of the Mexican peso in the 1980s put a damper on cross-border shopping; local tourism was down because of the recession . In 1983, a freeze took out much of the valley's citrus crop. In the mid-1980s, fueled by trade and the growth of the maquiladora (in which components are shipped to Mexico from
8075-522: The town applied for and was issued a charter of incorporation under the name McAllen. In 1916, 20,000 New York state troops were stationed at McAllen to help quell border disturbances related to the Mexican Civil War. The resulting economic boom increased the population from 1,200 in 1916 to 6,000 in 1920. McAllen adopted a home rule charter in 1927. Canning factories, a winery, tortilla plants, wood-working plants, and some oil exploration increased
8170-471: The tracks be reserved for Hispanic residences and businesses, and land south of the tracks be reserved for "Anglo" residences and businesses. Weslaco is part of the McAllen–Edinburg–Mission and Reynosa–McAllen metropolitan areas. The present location of Weslaco was originally part of the Llano Grande Land Grant granted to Juan José Ynojosa de Ballí in 1790. After Ynojosa's death, the grant
8265-485: The venture. Nearby communities circulated flyers discouraging settlement at the proposed town. Nevertheless, the sale of lots was held on December 8–10, 1919. Prices ranged from $ 50 to $ 400 per lot. To make a claim, individuals had to choose a lot and camp on it until the day of the sale. Lots were given away free to church groups. Three cars were also given away as a promotion during the sale. In 1941 stamp collector Oliver Rumbel and Weslaco Postmaster Davenport discovered at
8360-453: The warmest in the contiguous United States outside of South Florida , and comparable to the Coachella and Imperial valleys and Yuma Desert , but with warmer nighttime lows and higher dew points . Average annual precipitation is 22.31 inches (567 millimeters). Most precipitation occurs in the warm season, with the least precipitation distinctly occurring in the cooler winter. As September
8455-552: The wettest, averaging 5.64 inches (143 mm) of rain. The driest month is February, with only 0.95 inches (24 mm) of precipitation. The record snowfall was 3.00 inches (76 mm) on December 25, 2004. It snowed again on December 8, 2017. Weslaco received 10-12 inches of rain in October of 2015 that impacted several areas, particularly with drainage systems being overflooded. Temperatures are frequently above 100 °F (37.8 °C), occasionally as early as February and as late as
8550-460: Was $ 26,573, and the median income for a family was $ 29,215. Males had a median income of $ 24,202 versus $ 19,688 for females. The per capita income for the city was $ 11,235. About 26.5% of families and 30.9% of the population were below the poverty line , including 40.6% of those under age 18 and 23.5% of those age 65 or over. The focal point of economic activity has shifted from agriculture to international trade, healthcare, retail and tourism since
8645-515: Was 111 °F (44 °C), set on June 22, 2017 and May 9, 2024. The lowest temperature ever recorded in McAllen was 13 °F (−11 °C), on January 12, 1962. While usually a hot, humid, but relatively dry climate, McAllen, Texas has received unusual weather phenomena. In 2013, McAllen, Texas received a large hail storm that destroyed many vehicles and buildings. The storm came suddenly and many people were unprepared. In December 2017, McAllen received almost 3 inches of snow, nearly 13 years after
8740-454: Was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.55 and the average family size was 3.94. In the county, the population was spread out, with 34.7% under the age of 18, 10.7% from 18 to 24, 27.1% from 25 to 44, 18.2% from 45 to 64, and 9.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 28.3 years. For every 100 females there were 94.40 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.90 males. The median income for
8835-520: Was allocated to his children. Manuela and María received the land on which Weslaco is located today. The Ballí family ranched and maintained ownership of the land until 1852. In 1904, the Hidalgo and San Miguel extension of the St. Louis, Brownsville and Mexico Railway made its way to the site. It was promoted by Uriah Lott, Lon C. Hill, Jr., and others interested in developing the area through farming as opposed to ranching. The American Rio Grande Land and Irrigation Company of neighboring Mercedes purchased
8930-455: Was established in Cameron to preserve efficacy in these counties. This was unsuccessful however, due at least in part to the ticks' infestation of wildlife including whitetail ( Odocoileus virginianus ). 26°23′48″N 98°10′52″W / 26.39672°N 98.18107°W / 26.39672; -98.18107 McAllen, Texas McAllen is a city in the U.S. state of Texas and
9025-592: Was purchased by McAllen and was named the McAllen–Hidalgo–Reynosa International Bridge . Its construction resulted in increased tourist trade, making McAllen a winter resort and port of entry to Mexico. The discovery of oil in the Reynosa area in 1947 attracted a large migration of people from the Mexican interior to jobs in the region. They both constituted a new tourist market and a cheap labor supply for McAllen. The sister cities were linked as
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