During the recent Laredo City Council meeting held on October 6, 2025, significant updates were provided regarding the development of new pickleball courts at Divine Mercy Park, alongside discussions on an asphalt preservation program aimed at improving city streets.

The meeting began with an update from the Parks and Engineering departments about the progress on the Divine Mercy pickleball courts. The project has been in the works since February, with ongoing monthly meetings to ensure its completion. The council emphasized the importance of adequate parking to accommodate the expected influx of visitors, particularly during church events. Currently, there are parking challenges due to overflow from the church, and plans are in place to add approximately 45 new parking spots.

Funding for the pickleball courts and associated improvements has been sourced from various channels, including park improvement fees and private donations. A total of $550,000 was donated by local benefactor Beto Gutierrez, with a portion already allocated to other park enhancements. The remaining funds will cover the costs of construction, including concrete work, lighting, and amenities, with a projected shortfall of $34,003.47 to be addressed through discretionary funds. The courts are expected to be ready for public use by mid-November, contingent on the completion of the parking lot.

In addition to the pickleball project, the council discussed the asphalt preservation program, which aims to allocate up to $3 million for street improvements. The request for proposals (RFPs) for this program is set to open on November 7. Council members raised concerns about ensuring that the selection process for streets to be repaired is flexible enough to address the varying conditions of roads across the city. The engineering team assured that the contractor would have the discretion to assess and prioritize streets based on their current state, rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined list.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city’s commitment to enhancing recreational facilities and infrastructure, addressing community needs while ensuring that funding is effectively utilized. As these projects progress, the council will continue to monitor developments and engage with the community to ensure successful outcomes.