Longshot Trucking awarded boost grant; developer seeks EDC support for downtown Studio Suites project
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Summary
The EDC presented a small-business boost grant to Longshot Trucking and heard a detailed proposal from Larissa Lea for "Studio Suites," a fitness and wellness development at 101 North Pope Street; staff will review Lea’s completed application and the board aims to consider incentives at the next meeting.
The Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation awarded its small-business boost grant to Longshot Trucking Services, represented at the meeting by Ciro Solis, who thanked the board and said his new parts and trailer business serves customers from multiple states and will use the funds for marketing and office supplies.
In a separate presentation, applicant Larissa Lea described a proposed project she calls "Studio Suites," a commercial fitness and wellness development intended for 101 North Pope Street. Lea said the project will blend modern construction with Fort Ringgold–inspired historic facades, include outdoor patios and landscaping, and feature a rooftop terrace; she said she plans to leave the second floor available for a restaurant investor. Lea told the board she holds 100% ownership of the property and that engineering and civil plans are in progress.
Lea told the board the business currently serves an active membership of about 160 and that the expanded facility is intended to retain local youth and create jobs; she estimated the project’s cost in conversation (a board member referenced a rough estimate of about $1,000,000 during discussion). Staff noted the application packet for incentives was incomplete when initially submitted and Lea said she would provide the missing reference page and supporting documents; the EDC indicated it aims to review the completed application and issue a determination by the next meeting if possible.
Board members complimented the project’s historic-preservation‑minded facade, discussed the potential traffic and tourism impacts of a future state loop bypass, and requested to review Lea’s architectural renditions and civil layouts when finalized.
No formal incentive award or funding amount was approved at the meeting; the board explained that project scoring and incentive amounts will be determined after staff completes its review and the board considers the application at a future meeting.
