Federal funding approved for West Main Drain expansion project in Hidalgo County

Picture above: U. S. Representative Monica De La Cruz, center, worked with Hidalgo County Pct. 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres, right, and Raul Sesin, General Manager for Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 , at left, to secure $5.5 million in federal funding to support infrastructure improvements to the West Main Drain. Photo courtesy Hidalgo County.

Edinburg News, Edinburg TX News, Infrastructure, Flood Control

Staff Report

Edinburg, TX – Hidalgo County officials announced the approval of $5.5 million in federal funding to support infrastructure improvements to the West Main Drain, a project intended to enhance flood control in parts of McAllen and Edinburg. The funding was approved following passage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026.

Project overview

According to Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4 Ellie Torres, the project will expand approximately 4.45 miles of the West Main Drain. The planned improvements will begin near the intersection of State Highway 107 and Ware Road in McAllen and extend to the connection point with the North Main Drain near the intersection of McColl Road and Schunior Road in Edinburg.

County officials said the improvements are designed to strengthen drainage capacity in areas that are prone to flooding and to protect surrounding infrastructure.

Federal funding support

The $5.5 million allocation will fully cover construction costs associated with the drainage expansion project. The funding was included as part of the 2026 Consolidated Appropriations Act passed by Congress.

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz highlighted the funding as part of a broader investment in South Texas infrastructure.

“My vote brings home wins for South Texas. I am proud to invest over $13 million for transportation and critical infrastructure in our communities,” De La Cruz said in a statement following the vote on the appropriations legislation.

Engineering and development

Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 will complete the engineering design services for the project in-house. Officials said this approach will help reduce overall project costs.

The drainage district already owns 100 percent of the right-of-way needed for the expansion, meaning the project is not expected to impact private property or require additional land acquisition.

Next steps

Commissioner Torres said the project is intended to improve flood protection for residents while helping safeguard roadways, utilities and economic activity in the area.

County officials said a groundbreaking ceremony for the project will be announced at a later date.

Source: Office of Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4 Ellie Torres.