Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessConcerns arise over data center water and power usage in Cameron County
A new data center is being developed on over 1,100 acres in Cameron County, near Rio Hondo. While county officials, including Judge Eddie Treviño, see potential economic benefits, local resident Isaac Newman expresses concerns about the long-term impact on water resources and community well-being. The county has passed a resolution addressing water supply and electric grid reliability before allowing development. Fluidstack plans to implement a closed-loop cooling system and will source water from the East Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation. The company will also manage its own energy needs to minimize demand on the ERCOT grid. However, the county's zoning authority is limited, and further permits are required before construction can begin.
BusinessChildhood Home of President Donald Trump Sold for Nearly $2 Million
Donald Trump's childhood home in Queens, New York, has been sold for nearly $2 million after extensive renovations transformed it from a neglected property into a modern residence. Trump lived in the Tudor-style house until he was four years old. Built by his father, Fred Trump, in 1940, the home was sold for $1.93 million after a buyer signed a contract in July. The previous owner, Tommy Lin, purchased it for $835,000 and invested $500,000 in renovations. The property has changed hands several times, including a sale for $2.14 million shortly after Trump became president in 2017.
BusinessJacqueline Puente Urges Latina Leaders to Embrace AI, Data and Economic Opportunity
Jacqueline Puente, chairwoman of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, addressed Latina entrepreneurs at the Latina Leadership Conference in Mission, Texas, on September 11. She emphasized the importance of embracing artificial intelligence and digital tools to adapt to the rapidly changing economy. Puente highlighted that Latina business owners are starting businesses at three times the average rate and often prioritize paying employees over themselves. She urged attendees to leverage customer data to enhance business strategies and warned that failing to adapt could leave Latina entrepreneurs behind. Puente underscored the role of chambers of commerce in supporting local businesses.
BusinessDr. Covarrubias Says Del Rio Trade Surge Strengthens Case for Ports-to-Plains Corridor
Dr. Daniel Covarrubias from Texas A&M International University highlighted a significant increase in truck traffic through Del Rio, which reached 93,031 crossings in the past year, marking a 20.5% rise. This surge, alongside a 12.7% growth in two-way trade valued at $6.06 billion with Mexico, strengthens the case for the Ports-to-Plains corridor. Key imports include machinery, electrical equipment, and vehicle parts, with seat parts alone accounting for $365 million of the increase. Covarrubias emphasized the need for infrastructure investments to align with trade policies to maximize economic benefits for the region.
BusinessPharr Crunch Fitness reopens following closure over delinquent taxes
Crunch Fitness in Pharr has reopened after being closed due to unpaid taxes. The gym announced its return on Facebook, stating it resumed operations on Friday, September 11. According to a spokesperson from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, the gym has entered into a payment agreement, allowing it to operate again. The facility had accrued a total of $398,133.76 in delinquent taxes from September 2019 to July 2025.
BusinessDiesel prices top $6 a gallon, setting new record
This marks a 63 percent cost increase from a year ago, when the price of a gallon of diesel was around $3.71.
BusinessAlamo Chosen to Introduce New IHOP Concept
Alamo, Texas, is set to welcome a new IHOP featuring a California Heritage concept, which city officials believe will serve as a model for future locations. The nearly $3 million project, located at 315 E. Expressway 83, was celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony on September 10, led by Mayor J.R. Garza and attended by local dignitaries. The new 4,330-square-foot restaurant is scheduled to begin construction on October 20, 2026, with completion expected by July 1, 2027. This marks a significant investment in the community and the final IHOP addition to the Rio Grande Valley, emphasizing growth and innovation.
BusinessFluidstack breaks ground on $4 billion data center project in Cameron County
Fluidstack has commenced construction on a $4 billion data center campus in Cameron County, covering over 1,100 acres near Valley International Airport and the Port of Harlingen. The project is expected to generate over 2,500 construction jobs and several hundred permanent positions. Fluidstack is working with local leaders on community benefits and has received necessary permits from Cameron County. Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda noted the project will proceed without city approval, while Congressman Vicente Gonzalez expressed concerns about water and energy demands. The company claims it will cover all costs and contribute significantly to local taxes.
BusinessCameron County joins Brownsville to boost north side housing growth
Cameron County has partnered with Brownsville to enhance housing infrastructure on the city's north side. County commissioners unanimously approved joining the city's reinvestment zone, which spans approximately 1,000 acres north of I-169, between Old Alice and Paredes Line Road. This initiative aims to accommodate the influx of workers from projects like SpaceX and LNG developments. Cameron County Economic Development Director Ramiro Aleman emphasized the importance of collaboration between the county and municipalities for housing development. The county's involvement will last 25 years, directing 50% of the tax increment from maintenance and operations to the zone, with implementation starting in 2027.
BusinessLa Villa eyeing $14M water plant upgrade
La Villa is planning to construct a new water treatment plant to replace its aging facility, which is approximately 40 years old and frequently requires repairs. The estimated cost for the new plant is $14 million, and the city is actively seeking grants to fund the project. Recently, city commissioners approved a contingency plan in case grant funding is not secured. City Administrator Antonio 'Tony' Barco mentioned that a loan application has been submitted to the Texas Water Development Board, which would allow for necessary repairs to the existing plant to ensure continued operation for a few more years while pursuing grants.
BusinessOil prices leap to their highest since May and drag Wall Street lower
Oil prices surged to their highest levels since May, driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict with Iran. This spike has raised concerns about inflation and negatively impacted Wall Street, with the S&P 500 dropping 0.6% for the fourth consecutive day. Brent crude oil reached over $108 per barrel, contributing to a rise in gasoline prices to an average of nearly $4.28 nationwide. The Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates to combat inflation, while the European Central Bank also increased its rates. Meanwhile, the U.S. housing market shows signs of strain as mortgage rates hit a 14-month high.
BusinessMcAllen launches $3 bus route to Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge
McAllen has introduced a new bus route that connects the downtown area to the Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge, providing a safer and more affordable travel option. The one-way fare is set at $3, allowing passengers to bypass the $1 toll and avoid walking through traffic. The bus operates every two hours from Monday to Saturday between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., and on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. City Commissioner Michael Fallek noted that safety issues with private shuttles prompted this initiative, which is currently under evaluation and may undergo changes.
BusinessFluidstack Begins $4 Billion AI Data Center Project in Cameron County
Fluidstack has initiated the construction of a $4 billion AI data center project in Cameron County, covering over 1,100 acres near Rio Hondo. This development, located east of Valley International Airport and west of the Port of Harlingen, is expected to create more than 2,500 construction jobs and several hundred permanent positions. Fluidstack will finance its own energy and infrastructure without seeking local tax incentives, contributing millions annually to the local tax base. The project will utilize a closed-loop cooling system to minimize water use. Local officials have praised the investment for its commitment to community resources and job creation.
BusinessFluidstack begins $4 billion data center construction in Cameron County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — New York-based Fluidstack announced it has begun construction of a $4 billion data center campus in Cameron County. As previously reported by ValleyCentral, the facility will be built on more than 1,000 acres east of the Valley International Airport and west of the Port of Harlingen, near Rio Hondo. The company estimates
BusinessFluidstack breaks ground on $4 billion data center campus in Cameron County
Fluidstack has commenced construction on a $4 billion data center campus in Cameron County, covering over 1,100 acres near Valley International Airport and the Port of Harlingen. The project is expected to generate more than 2,500 construction jobs and hundreds of permanent positions. Fluidstack is working on community benefit commitments and has received necessary permits from Cameron County. Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda stated that the project is proceeding without the city's approval, and the proposed $20 million for infrastructure improvements will now go to Cameron County. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez expressed concerns about water shortages and the impact of data centers on local resources.
BusinessJoe Salazar Named Acting CEO as Mission EDC Builds on Record of Economic Growth
Joe Salazar has been appointed as the acting CEO of the Mission Economic Development Corporation (EDC) effective September 9, 2026. With over 15 years of public-sector financial experience, Salazar aims to continue the organization's economic development initiatives while the Board searches for a permanent CEO. He previously served as the financial officer, managing budgeting and compliance. Salazar emphasizes the importance of continuity and collaboration with the staff, city leadership, and community partners to support Mission's business environment and attract investments. His appointment follows the retirement of Teclo Garcia, who served as CEO for four years.
BusinessFluidstack's Data Center Moves Forward Outside Harlingen
What began as negotiations to connect a mega technology project to the local grid has taken a definitive turn. Fluidstack, a provider of computing infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence (AI), will proceed with the construction of its data center in an unincorporated area of Cameron County, independently of the City of Harlingen. The news was confirmed following the issuance of a development and infrastructure permit by Cameron County, which guarantees the project an alternative stormwater drainage route. With this step, Harlingen loses jurisdiction over the data center and the opportunity to receive a $20 million investment proposal in infrastructure, funds that will now go to the county. From the initial discussions in the City Commission after the meeting on September 2, 2026, the official stance was that the data center would be built with or without Harlingen, as the land is outside its municipal boundaries. The only point of contact was the company's request to connect to a municipal drainage channel. In exchange, Harlingen was evaluating $7 million in mitigation works such as channel expansion and detention ponds, which, according to technical analyses, would have prevented the severe flooding experienced in the airport area in March 2025. Although it was claimed on social media that the city could halt the project, the option of alternative drainage through the county was always on the table and is now a reality. The main question for municipal authorities is whether Fluidstack will construct those detention works with the same projected capacity or if the airport area will remain vulnerable to future storms. This resolution also highlighted a lack of communication between local governments. While Harlingen held public hearings and informed residents, Cameron County approved the permits independently without formally notifying the city. Harlingen officials stated they will continue to demand answers to prevent development outside their limits from affecting the water system of their residents.
BusinessBBB RGV warns consumers over online roofing posts
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Better Business Bureau Rio Grande Valley is advising consumers regarding a misleading Facebook post. According to the news release from the BBB Rio Grande Valley, the post is claiming that Habitat for Humanity is offering free roof installation, replacement, or repair services for seniors over the age of 50; however, when
BusinessPharr Global Business Hub Marks Hispanic Heritage Month with U.S.–Mexico Focus
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Pharr Global Business Hub will host an event titled "Celebrating Heritage Beyond the Border" on September 17, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. This gathering aims to emphasize the cultural and economic ties between the U.S. and Mexico, featuring a roundtable discussion with business and community leaders. Victor Perez, President of Pharr EDC, highlighted Pharr's strategic position as a trade gateway. The event will also include a networking mixer for attendees to foster connections and explore new business opportunities. Associate Consul Jesus Alejandro Cano Sanchez will be a featured guest.