For Immediate Release
January 29, 2026
Contact: Eddie Treviño, Jr.
Cameron County Judge
TEXAS PARKS & WILDLIFE AWARDS CAMERON COUNTY $750,000 FOR BEJARANO-MCFARLAND MEMORIAL PARK PHASE II
Cameron County is pleased to announce the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has approved funding for improvements to the Bejarano-McFarland Memorial Park under the Non-Urban Outdoor Local Park Grant Programs in the amount of $750,000.
The Bejarano-McFarland Memorial Park is located in the community of the Laguna Heights fronting the beautiful Laguna Madre Bay area. The Cameron County Commissioners’ Court recently acquired adjacent property, allowing for an extended footprint for this park. The proposed Phase II park improvements include outdoor classroom/pavilion, boardwalk overlook with kayak launching area adjacent to the Laguna Madre Bay, interpretive signage, permeable walking trail, nature scape inclusive playground, wildlife friendly solar lighting and habitat restoration. This improvement project is estimated to cost $1.62 million. Construction will begin once the Commissioners’ Court approves a contract for a general contractor to complete the improvements. The current Phase I improvements to Bejarano-McFarland Memorial Park represented an investment of approximately $3.0 million. In addition, a proposed $2.5 million investment is planned for the Laguna Madre Nature Center, also located within the park. With these enhancements, the total investment in Bejarano-McFarland Memorial Park is expected to reach $7,320,000.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr. stated, “This grant from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department represents an important investment in both our community and our natural resources. Phase II of the Bejarano-McFarland Park Improvements will strengthen our connection to the Laguna Madre Bay while providing new educational, recreational, and inclusive opportunities for residents and visitors alike. These enhancements reflect our commitment to responsible stewardship, conservation, and quality of life for future generations. We are grateful to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department for their continued partnership and support.
Cameron County Commissioner Precinct 3 David A. Garza stated, “Phase II of the Bejarano-Park Improvements Park is an exciting step forward for our county. The outdoor classroom, boardwalk overlook, kayak launch, and nature-based playground will allow people of all ages and abilities to experience this unique coastal environment firsthand. We are grateful for the support from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and proud to see projects that balance public access with habitat preservation.”
Joe E. Vega, Cameron County Parks & Recreation Director stated, “This grant funds allows us to thoughtfully expand Bejarano-McFaland Park in a way that protects and celebrates the surrounding ecosystem. The planned improvements such as interpretive signage, permeable walking trails, wildlife-friendly solar lighting, and habitat restoration will create meaningful learning experiences while minimizing environmental impact. Phase II will truly transform the park into a destination for education, recreation, and conservation.”
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