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Council designates US 82 southbound overpass as Ray Gonzales Jr. Memorial Highway
Summary
The Wichita Falls City Council approved a resolution to rename the southbound US 82 flyover for Ray Gonzales Jr., a local businessman, Purple Heart recipient and former county commissioner and councilman. The resolution will move to TxDOT for final approval and sign installation.
The Wichita Falls City Council on May 6 approved a resolution to designate the southbound US 82 overpass as the Ray Gonzales Jr. Memorial Highway.
Why it matters: The honor recognizes Gonzales27 military service and decades of civic involvement in Wichita Falls. City staff said the designation will not affect addresses and requires final approval by the Texas Department of Transportation before installation of a memorial sign.
Who Ray Gonzales Jr. was
Johnny Vilestrego of the Mexican American Veterans Association described Gonzales27s service record and community leadership: Gonzales served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969, was a Purple Heart recipient and participated in numerous local boards and civic efforts. Vilestrego urged the council to approve the sign as a lasting recognition of Gonzales27s service.
City process and next steps
Terry (staff) explained that the proposed rename affects the TxDOT-owned flyover and that TxDOT approval is required; staff said no property addresses would be affected and that a single sign will be installed in a TxDOT-approved location. The planning and zoning commission recommended the resolution at its April meeting and council unanimously approved it at the May 6 meeting. The city will coordinate with TxDOT and traffic staff to install the sign and arrange a dedication event once TxDOT approval is received.
Family remarks and community reaction
Josefia Stiglio, president of the Mexican American Veterans Association, presented a plaque and thanked the council. A family member told the council the dedication was deeply meaningful and thanked the community for the honor.
Ending: The resolution now proceeds to TxDOT for its director27s approval; staff will coordinate sign installation and a dedication event with the Gonzales family and the Mexican American Veterans Association.
