Del Rio's Future

Mayor Al Arreola Looks Back on a Year of Progress and Ahead to Del Rio’s Future

By Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TX — As the year comes to a close, City of Del Rio Mayor Al Arreola says 2025 will be remembered as a year of steady progress, economic momentum, and renewed focus on the needs of local residents.
“We had a lot of progress in our community and several economic boosts,” Arreola said during a recent interview on KWMC Radio. “It’s been a blessing for Del Rio. While there were challenges, the city council and administration worked together to address issues and keep the city moving forward.”
Over the past several years, Del Rio has seen consistent economic growth, with new hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses opening across the city. Arreola noted that this expansion has helped strengthen city revenues while creating new opportunities for local workers and entrepreneurs.
A key highlight for the mayor has been the continued revitalization of downtown Del Rio, where small, locally owned businesses have played a central role.
“Del Rio is a traditional community we support small businesses,” Arreola said. “When you see downtown growing, with new restaurants, bars, and shops, that tells you people believe in this city and are willing to invest in it.”
As the city looks toward 2026, Arreola said maintaining focus on core infrastructure needs will remain essential. Street repairs, improved lighting, and ongoing water and sewer maintenance are among the priorities that directly impact residents’ daily lives.
“Our responsibility is to take care of the basics first,” he said. “Streets, lighting, and infrastructure are not luxuries they’re necessities.”
The mayor also emphasized the importance of pursuing state and federal grants to fund improvements without placing additional strain on local taxpayers.
“Money is out there,” Arreola said. “If we stay focused and apply for those grants, we can bring outside dollars into Del Rio and invest them where they’re needed most.”
Looking ahead, Arreola outlined several longer-term goals, including upgrades to city parks, continued creek cleanup efforts, and exploring ways to repurpose city-owned properties for arts, entertainment, and community gatherings.
“We need spaces that bring families together,” he said. “Whether it’s parks, cultural centers, or downtown venues, those investments help improve quality of life.”
Reflecting on the year, Arreola said community unity has been one of Del Rio’s greatest strengths.
“If we continue working together and staying focused on the needs of our citizens,” he said, “2026 can be another strong year for Del Rio.”
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