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Weslaco approves change order for brackish groundwater feasibility study as state funding and economic development opportunity grows
Summary
Commissioners approved change order No. 1 to Ambutech for a feasibility study to locate and assess brackish groundwater resources, approving $146,140 for expanded scope. City officials said having a shovel-ready groundwater study could position Weslaco for recently passed state funding for new water sources.
The Weslaco City Commission on Wednesday approved change order No. 1 to Ambutech to expand a feasibility study that will determine optimal locations and capacities for brackish groundwater sources.
City staff described the move as proactive: the Texas Legislature and state officials recently authorized large funding pools for new water sources and infrastructure, and a completed groundwater feasibility study would make the city more competitive for grant funding. Staff said the change order amount is $146,140 and that the study would take roughly two months to complete.
Public discussion framed groundwater as an emerging economic-development asset—city staff said industry locating in the area often requires substantial water for manufacturing and that locally available groundwater could support future industry and reduce reliance on Rio Grande surface water.
Commissioners approved the change order by motion; staff said the economic-development corporation would help pursue funding opportunities to support the work.
Why it matters: As surface-water costs rise and supply questions persist, finding alternate water sources such as brackish groundwater can support long-term water security and economic development. A completed feasibility study will allow the city to apply to newly available state water-infrastructure funding.
