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Del Rio breaks ground on Roberto “Bob” Chavira Sports Complex; federal grant and two-year timeline announced
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Summary
Officials, school leaders and family members gathered in Del Rio to dedicate the Roberto “Bob” Chavira Sports Complex, announce a federally supported grant that helped fund the project and estimate roughly two years for construction to be completed.
Del Rio and Val Verde County officials joined school leaders, community members and Roberto “Bob” Chavira’s family to break ground on the Roberto “Bob” Chavira Sports Complex on a site donated by the San Felipe del Rio Consolidated Independent School District.
The dedication on behalf of the San Felipe del Rio CISD and Val Verde County included prayers, speeches and a ceremonial groundbreaking. Commissioner Juan Carlos Vasquez said U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzalez helped secure a “substantial grant” through community project funding that was instrumental in moving the project forward. “This sports complex will serve as a beacon of opportunity, providing a safe, inclusive space where kids can play, learn, grow, and build lots of memories,” Vasquez said.
Why it matters: the complex—named for the longtime coach, educator and former mayor Roberto “Bob” Chavira—is intended to provide new athletic fields, playgrounds, parking and amenities for Del Rio-area youth and families. Officials said the land donation by the school district made the project possible and emphasized local oversight on procurement and finances.
School Superintendent Dr. Carlos Diaz praised the tripartite collaboration of city, county and school district leaders that delivered the project to this stage. School Board President Raymond Mesa described Chavira’s decades of service to local schools and the community, noting his scholarship to Howard Payne University and his master’s degree in education administration.
Chavira, who also served as a coach, city council member and mayor, accepted the honor and framed the naming as a community achievement rather than a personal celebration. He thanked family members, longtime mentors and local leaders and said he hoped the complex would help future generations discover their potential.
Jalen Falcone, district director and deputy chief of staff for Rep. Tony Gonzalez, said the congressman identified the project for community project funding and that local partners moved quickly to meet requirements. The event host then asked Commissioner Vasquez for a timeline; Vasquez estimated the project would be completed in about two years.
Officials named several local contributors and staff who will oversee next steps, including the county engineer, purchasing staff (identified in remarks as Melissa Vasquez) and the county auditor’s office. A ceremonial groundbreaking photo brought together 17 designated participants to mark the start of work.
Next steps: Officials said procurement and construction scheduling will move forward in the coming months; the commissioner and partners plan to return for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at project completion, currently projected at roughly two years.
