CHAPTER 12
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
"Harlingen is the International Leader of Excellencein Medicine, Industry,
Transportation, Government, and Education, within a thriving Multicultural
Community."
It is stated throughout Harlingen's Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan that planning is a
continuous process. As such, it is important to realize that this document is by no means
an end in itself. In fact, standing alone it is merely a source of data, capable of
accomplishing very little. A comprehensive plan must be constantly scrutinized to ensure
that its goals, objectives, policies, and recommended actions continue to reflect changing
community needs and attitudes. Likewise, great care should be taken to ensure that its
policies are continually reflected in the Future Land Use Plan, which is the general plan
for land use and development for the City of Harlingen. Recommendations for the
continuing planning process are provided at the end of this chapter.
The comprehensive plan is the City's guide for government officials and citizens in
making decisions about land use and development. Perhaps most importantly, the Vision
2020 plan must be brought to life through a dynamic implementation framework, which
recommends specific proposals for programs and actions that should be implemented by
the City.
Measures of Success
This Chapter will delineate the accomplishments to date from the adoption of the original
Comprehensive Plan in 1996. This section will become the living history of this
document and help measure the success of its implementation for each element of the
Plan.
Actions accomplished from the original plan by original chapter elements are as follows:
Chapter 2: Demography and Economics
* Improve the Tyler and Harrison Street Business District west of the railroad tracks (La
Placita District created)
* Reopening of the Valley Greyhound Race Track
* Involve and utilize Texas State Technical College in economic and industrial
development efforts (Development Corporation partnerships)
* Work with legislative delegation to promote the development of regional medical
facilities (RAHC)
Chapter 3: Land Use and Housing
* Revise the City's Zoning Code and Subdivision Regulations
* Improve control over outdoor signage
* Continue development of the Harlingen Industrial Parks
* Pursue the development of public/private partnerships to initiate redevelopment
projects (NRS)
* Identify and pursue Federal and State programs which broaden housing choices for
citizens (End of the Road and HCDC/NRS)
* Promote scattered site developments for public and assisted housing (HCDC/NRS)
* Airport height hazard zoning implemented
* Encourage the organization and function of neighborhood civic associations (creation
of new Chapter 10)
* Utilize Land Use Plan and Major Thoroughfare Plan in rezoning and subdivision
applications
Chapter 4: Transportation
* Implement the planned improvements to the US 77/83 Interchange
* Review and consider implementation of recommendations for public transportation
improvements (Harlingen-San Benito Express extended hours service)
* Implement first phase of the Arroyo Colorado Hike and Bike Trail and submit
nomination for second phase funding (also received award of second phase funding)
* Support implementation of all transportation improvement projects identified in the
HSBMPO Metropolitan Transportation Plan
Chapter 5: Subdivision, Annexation & Zoning
* A comprehensive study of the zoning and subdivision ordinances was completed
* Both Ordinances were revised updating the format and content, improving the
organization, adding headers/footers, and graphic illustrations making them more "userfriendly"
* Both Ordinances implemented any new current technology including requirement of
drawing of subdivisions on diskettes for updating the City Zoning basemap
* Both Ordinances' purpose and intent were re-established to clearly state the City's
position in implementation of such
* The Zoning Ordinance was completely overhauled with the recommendations in 1997
* Additional residential zoning districts were added to allow more flexibility for multifamily housing choices
* ADA requirements were incorporated in the new Zoning Ordinance
* Administrative procedures for zoning and subdivision applications were clarified and
streamlined allowing staff approval where appropriate
* The Subdivision Ordinance was completely overhauled with those recommendations in
2001
* Updated brochures were created for the City's zoning and subdivision application,
review and approval/disapproval processes and are updated annually
* An aggressive policy of city initiated annexation for properties zoned "N" has been
undertaken since 2000
* Work is ongoing to create an official Zoning Map in computer graphic format
Chapter 6: Environment
* Establish and protect bird sanctuaries and refuge areas that will enhance and maintain
sites for birding activities (The Thicket)
* Create and preserve green belt linkages of open spaces throughout the City (Hike &
Bike trail)
Chapter 7: Parks & Recreation
* Investigate and acquire sites for future neighborhood, community and large regional
parks in a timely manner (NRS Park property)
* Develop natural areas for eco-tourism and passive outdoor recreation (Arroyo Hike and
Bike Trail and Hugh Ramsey Nature Park)
* Establish expanded park and recreation facilities at the existing Sports Complex
Chapter 8: Drainage
* Subdivision plat standards that require adequate drainage improvements for new
development
* Accomplished one Letter of Map Amendment from FEMA
Chapter 9: Water and Wastewater
* Launched a new area-wide water system analysis to update and expand the water
system plan for the City
* Investigated alternatives for meeting the water storage needs of the City
* Devised methods to improve odor control at wastewater pump stations and treatment
plants.
* Expanded the reverse osmosis wastewater reuse part of Plant No. 2 and implemented
system improvements to transport excess sewage inflows from Plant No. 1 to Plant No. 2
* Implemented WaterSmart program to encourage water conservationü Implemented use
of brackish water for Treasure Hills Golf Course irrigation
* Expanded the water treatment and storage capacity of the M.F. Runnion Water
Treatment Plant
*Developed additional water storage capacity (two new tanks)
* Acquired some additional municipal water rights
* Ongoing replacement of existing cast iron water lines
GOALS
OBJECTIVES
POLICIES
ACTIONS
As stated in previous sections, Vision 2020 is comprehensive in the manner that it
identifies the myriad of factors related to future community growth, analyzes the
relationships between these factors, proposes what needs to be done about them, and
recommends goals, objectives, policies, and actions for using the City's resources in the
most efficient and effective ways.
An aggressive yet realistic framework for implementing the comprehensive plan should
be established, maintained and utilized by the entire community. Implementation tools
include the zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and the capital improvements
program and capital budget. These tools should be reviewed and updated periodically so
that the goals, objectives, and policies of the comprehensive plan can be put into action.
Implementation should focus on the Major Plan Elements:
Demographics
Land Use
Transportation
Zoning, Subdivision and Annexation- Environment
Parks and Recreation
Drainage
Water and Wastewater
Neighborhoods and Housing
Economic Development
The primary focal points for implementation of Harlingen's Vision 2020 Comprehensive
Plan will center upon the major plan elements, which are described in the previous
chapters. Implementation will include use of the Future Land Use Plan in decisionmaking relating to zoning and subdivision approvals, to ensure that development and
redevelopment are consistent with the City's comprehensive plan. Future expansion of the
City will occur as newly annexed areas are incorporated under the recommended
annexation policy. Street and highway improvements in accord with the City's Major
Thoroughfare Plan will be another principal activity. Acquisition and improvements for
parks and open space will occur as the Park and Recreation Master Plan is
implemented. Neighborhood plans and housing improvements that are the focus of action
plans and recommendations discussed in Chapter 10 represent areas of significant
opportunities and initiatives for development and improvement of the Harlingen
community and citizen/governmental relations.
Other proposals should also be included in an annual goal setting exercise undertaken
with the community and Planning & Zoning and City Commission prior to the budget
process so that the goals set can have an opportunity to be funded as necessary to be
accomplished.
Commitment to Implementation
It is important to note that successful implementation of this plan relies on many nontraditional resources. The many hours committed by citizens to shaping the Vision 2020
plan attest to their desire for attaining their vision for Harlingen. The city's staff and
leaders sought to involve the entire community in the planning effort. The effort and time
contributed by citizens, committed to betterment of their community, require that actions
be taken to carry out the recommended policies and proposals. City officials have
expressed their commitment to implementation of the resulting plan.
Perhaps the most important method of implementing Harlingen's Vision 2020
Comprehensive Plan comes from a day-to-day commitment by elected and appointed
officials, city staff members, and Harlingen citizens. The Comprehensive Plan must be
perceived by these parties as a useful and capable tool in directing the City's future. The
Future Land Use Plan, Major Thoroughfare Plan, and Parks and Recreation Master Plan
should be displayed and available for ready reference by officials, staff and citizens. The
Comprehensive Plan should continually be referenced in planning studies and zoning
case reports, as well as informal discussion situations. It is this high visibility that will
make the plan successful, dynamic, and a powerful tool for guiding Harlingen's future
growth.
Proposed Implementation Actions
A series of proposed implementation actions were developed by reviewing the
information described in the preceding chapters. These are specific steps that should be
taken to help better implement the plan. These actions were synthesized by analysis of
the goals and objectives. Some proposals may call for the formation of a new committee,
or identify the need for a specific study. In addition to such "new" initiatives, the
continuation of ongoing City policies and programs is recommended in many instances.
While the proposed implementation actions are not legally binding like the zoning code
and subdivision regulations, the proposals are tremendously important to the plan's
successful implementation, and are a vital supplement to its goals, objectives, and
policies.
The proposed actions from the individual chapters for implementing the plan are
summarized on the following pages. The recommendations have been organized into
categories according to the major plan elements, and are further divided according to the
suggested time frame for implementation. These include immediate, intermediate/long
term, and ongoing time frames.
LAND USE
Immediate
* Use the Future Land Use Plan as a tool to evaluate and prioritize capital projects for the
City's Capital Budget for utilities and public facilities improvements, to encourage and
guide future development patterns.
* Provide adequate resources and services to promote and support the Heart of Harlingen
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy efforts.
Intermediate/Long Term
* Provide the basic resources, services and amenities to preserve and enhance Jackson
Street and La Placita Districts as the business, services and cultural center of the city
providing pedestrian focus.
* Continue development of the Harlingen Industrial Parks to create availability of readyto-build opportunities for industry and manufacturers desiring to locate in Harlingen.
* Continue efforts to attract and develop additional lodging facilities (including hotels,
motels, bed and breakfast inns) as well as entertainment and cultural activities, sports and
recreation and other similar facilities and uses to serve tourism and visitors to the
Harlingen area, in cooperation with the Harlingen Chamber of Commerce and Harlingen
Development Corporation.
Ongoing
* Utilize the Future Land Use Plan as a general guide for review of proposed zoning
changes by the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Commission, keeping in mind
that the land use plan is not a detailed zoning map but rather is intended to illustrate the
predominant type, relative location, and general pattern of land uses. Consistency with
the goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan should also be considered. Avoid
"spot zoning" that creates isolated locations of incompatible use within areas of other
prevailing uses.
* Coordinate land use planning by the City with the Harlingen Consolidated Independent
School District, particularly with regard to future land use, utilities, roadways, and school
site locations.
* Encourage new development to locate in accordance with land suitability recognizing
the need for both concentration of facilities and activities and the preservation of open
space.
* In zoning recommendations avoid mixtures of incompatible land uses in close
proximity to each other. Encourage use of buffers and transitions of land uses with
intermediate intensity to separate higher intensity uses form lower intensity uses.
* Review subdivision and development of land uses for provision of efficient traffic
access and circulation for local access through traffic movement.
* Relate the intensity of land use to sustainable development, especially the capability of
providing adequate public facilities and services, and utility systems for water,
wastewater and drainage.
* Provide adequate public services and infrastructure to efficiently serve existing and
planned future development.
* Promote, develop and maintain public and private open spaces within the urbanized
area to provide scenic amenities and green spaces in appropriate relation to built-up area.
* Protect the airport environs surrounding Rio Grande Valley International Airport from
incompatible land uses and height hazard obstructions to aviation activity that would
limit or tend to limit air operations and air transport service, especially those areas within
the 65 dBa sound level contour for airport related noise.
* Consider regional roles and responsibilities to strengthen the relationship of Harlingen
and other communities within the Lower Rio Grande Valley in land use and development
decisions.
* Encourage development of vacant land and redevelopment of underutilized land within
the existing urbanized area, consistent with available infrastructure and compatible land
uses.
* Encourage redevelopment and infill development of inner city areas, which may
include higher intensity uses that are compatible with other existing uses and located in
appropriate areas.
* Manage subdivision within the Extraterritorial Jurisdiction in accordance with the
City's goals, objectives and policies
* Encourage development in areas that will take maximum advantage of existing water,
sewer and street systems and plans for expansion and improvement of these systems
should recognize and be coordinated with the City's comprehensive land use and
development plan.
* Development should pay its fair share of costs for extension of public utilities serving
its site, with the City paying the cost of any oversizing or added capacity needed to serve
other future uses.
TRANSPORTATION
Immediate
* Utilize and consider the Major Thoroughfare Plan as a guide in the review of
subdivision plat applications by the Planning and Zoning Commission, to ensure that
needed right-of-way is dedicated for existing and planned major streets to serve existing
and future mobility needs. (Alignments of new major street segments shown on the plan
are general locations if no existing right-of-way has been established, and the actual
alignment for such segments may vary up to one-half mile in any direction.)
* Evaluate development impacts on transportation and utilities systems. Traffic impact
analyses should be required for major development projects above a defined threshold,
such as number of acres or number of dwelling units.
* Support the designation and development of US 77, US 83 and FM509 as part of the I69 Corridor.
* Implement the planned Arroyo Colorado Crossing and Dixieland Road Extension
improvements in accord with the Harlingen-San Benito Metropolitan Transportation Plan
* Implement the second phase of the Arroyo Colorado Bike and Jog Trail, and seek
additional funding for the remaining phases of the Arroyo Trail as well as other on-street
and off-street elements of the facilities identified in the Parks and Recreation Master
Plan.
* Develop and implement a city-wide Pavement Management System (PMS) for the
maintenance of existing city streets, expanding upon existing city street maintenance
capabilities.
* Continue an aggressive annual overlay project to maintain and improve existing
transportation infrastructure on a regular basis.
* Begin an aggressive annual sidewalk improvement program similar to the street
maintenance program to improve sidewalks in disrepair and construct new sidewalks in
areas where high pedestrian traffic warrant, especially in areas of schools and parks
where pedestrians are likely to be children.
* Undertake an updated Downtown Parking and Traffic Study Update for the areas of the
Central Business District to assess the parking and access needs for retail, service, and
special uses in the Downtown Harlingen area and to recommend a parking and traffic
management program.
* Improve access-control on major and minor arterials and collector streets minimizing
residential driveway access on these type of roads and require efficient provision of
commercial driveway access perhaps through shared access driveways.
Pursue potential relocation of existing railroad corridors and switching yards outside
Harlingen's core urban area to facilitate automobile traffic movement and strengthen the
Port, Industrial Parks, Airport and Free Trade Bridge.
Intermediate/Long Term
* Implement Harlingen area roadway improvement projects included in Cameron
County's "Project Road Map" thoroughfare development program.
* Seek opportunities for improving east-west travel movement across the urbanized area,
such as new roadways constructed along enclosed canals or within abandoned railroad
right-of-way, consistent with objectives for maintaining neighborhood integrity.
* Continue to explore ways to improve direct access routes to their airport from major
access points like Loop 499 from Expressway 77 to FM507.
* Improve roadway access between the Los Indios Free Trade Bridge and Port of
Harlingen, Harlingen Industrial Parks, Valley International Airport, and other major
generators of international border crossing traffic.
* Work with the Union Pacific Railroad to reduce conflicts between auto and rail traffic
in the Harlingen area and improve traffic safety at rail-roadway crossings, including
efforts to relocate the trackage outside core areas of the city limits ultimately and
intermediately developing additional railroad-roadway grade separations; construct
crossing safety improvements.
* Undertake a Corridor Feasibility and Alignment Study to determine the feasibility and
preliminary alignment for constructing new or extended roadways as shown in the Major
Thoroughfare Plan.
* Develop an integrated system of safe and efficient on-street bikeways and off-street
paths and trails accessible for all areas of the city and connecting neighborhoods, schools,
parks, shopping and employment centers.
* Provide pedestrian walkways, sidewalks, crosswalks, ramps and curb cuts along city
streets in areas with significant pedestrian traffic, including compliance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act.
* Develop, improve and maintain port facilities and services needed to promote expanded
use of the port for barge shipment of bulk commodities.
* The Metropolitan Planning Organization and Texas Department of Transportation
should undertake a Traffic Safety and Access Improvement Study for the Loop 499
Corridor, to address emerging development and traffic operation concerns along this
heavily traveled corridor.
Ongoing
* Support implementation of all transportation improvement projects identified in the
Harlingen-San Benito Metropolitan Transportation Plan.
* Upgrade traffic control and safety features for city streets to include overhead street
signs at signalized intersections, and traffic signage and pavement markings consistent
with the Texas Uniform Traffic Control Manual.
* Implement planned airport improvements identified in the Airport Master Plan for Rio
Grande Valley International Airport. Develop, improve, and maintain airport facilities
and services needed to promote continued air travel growth and maintain Harlingen's
dominant role as the air transport hub for the Valley.
* In cooperation with airline companies, air cargo carriers, and aviation-related
businesses, market the use of airport facilities and services by air travelers and
businesses.
* Expand and improve the Port of Harlingen to serve maritime trade and industrial
development, including constructiion of wharves, terminals, storage/warehousing
facilities, and access.
* Support continued adequate maintenance dredging and needed improvement (widening
and deepening) of the Harlingen Barge Channel and Gulf Intracoastal Waterway by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
* Promote the benefits of the Free Trade Bridge Regional Enterprise Zone and the FM
509 and FM 1479 corridors.
* Monitor needs and support the expansion of the demand response transit system
(Harlingen-San Benito Express) for the elderly an disabled.
ZONING, SUBDIVISION AND
ANNEXATION
Immediate
* An area-wide zoning study should be conducted to determine and recommend
appropriate rezoning for areas currently zoned "N" Not Designated
* Continue an aggressive plan of city initiated rezoning to achieve consistency with the
Comprehensive Plan, Future Land Use Plan and establish appropriate zoning district
classifications for areas currently classified as "N" Not Designated
* Expand, update and adopt the official Zoning Map to reflect the current zoning
designations for the City and make copies available for purchase and use by developers,
realtors and citizens.
* Devise a method for accurately tracking vested rights and nonconforming uses.
Intermediate/Long Term
* Consolidate the Mobile Home Ordinance into the Zoning ordinance, including
necessary revisions.
* A Zoning Atlas should be prepared to provide easy reference to zoning at a convenient
scale (1 inch = 400 feet) and useable page size and format, with individual atlas sheets
covering small portions of the entire City.
Ongoing
* The Zoning Ordinance should continue to be revised and updated based on other
recommendations resulting from further study.
* Zoning and subdivision review should consider the availability of the adequate public
utilities with existing or planned capacity for water and wastewater service to
accommodate the proposed development.
ENVIRONMENT
Immediate
* Appoint a Citizens' Committee (or energize an existing committee such as Harlingen
Proud) to study and recommend areas and locations where existing public property
should be aesthetically improved through landscaping or other beautification efforts in
high visibility locations which contribute to the overall image and scenic quality of the
Harlingen area. Identify and carry out community clean-up projects.
* Undertake an Urban Design Study to identify and design landscape improvements for
public land at major "gateways" into and within the City, with a unified design for
beautifying areas such as landscaped medians, corner cutbacks, and right-of-way
margins, consistent with traffic safety standards.
On-going
* Preserve and protect unique natural areas such as the Arroyo Colorado.
* Enhance and maintain wildlife and vegetation resources in the community.
* Establish and protect bird sanctuaries and refuge areas that will enhance and maintain
birdlife and provide attractive sites for birding activity.
* Preserve and protect significant plant and wildlife habitat areas, including critical
habitats for threatenend and endangered species as well as other habitats for birds,
mammals, reptiles, plants, fish and other species.
* Create and preserve green belt linkages of parks, open spaces, drainageways, irrigation
canals, bikeways, paths, and natural areas throughout the City.
* Work with drainage and irrigation districts to landscape canal rights-of-way as linear
green spaces within the city. Maintain drainage channel easements as attractive open
spaces.
* Use water conservation and water pollution prevention as a means to protect water
quality and balance long-term water supply and demand.
* Maintain and improve, as needed, the capability of the City's wastewater collection,
treatment and disposal system to operate in compliance with applicable discharge
requirements and water quality standards, while providing adequate service to meet
existing and projected community needs.
* Coordinate with the Texas Department of Transportation for landscape and lighting
improvements within the rights-of-way for highways and on-system roads within the
Harlingen area.
* Establish a Street Tree Planting Program to increase trees in appropriate locations
within public rights-of-way.
* Increase plantings of palm trees, Bougainvillea, and other trees and shrubbery uniquely
suited to the Valley, to enhance the scenic beauty and landscape image of Harlingen.
Loop 499, 77 Sunshine Strip, US 77/83, Spur 54, and Dixieland Road are notable
examples and areas for improvement.
* Enhance the cleanliness, appearance and aesthetic quality of the community.
* Incorporate appropriate landscaping into public improvement projects.
* Attract businesses and industries that are "clean" industries with no detrimental effect
on air quality from emissions produced,.
*Support adequate enforcement of Federal and State air quality standards and emission
controls.
* Implement needed transportation improvements to maintain mobility for transport of
people and good within and through the area, and to minimize congestion and resultant
air quality impacts of inefficient transportation system operations.
* Implement ordinances and codes that encourage multi-modal transportation facilities
and infrastructure, especially for improving pedestrian and bicyclist mobility.
PARKS AND
RECREATION
Immediate
* Investigate and acquire sites for future neighborhood, community and large regional
parks in a timely manner while potential sites are undeveloped and affordable.
* Develop unique recreation opportunities such as, bicycle motocross facilities, and a
childrens' museum/discovery park.
* Establish a park land purchase fund as part of the capital improvements program and
seek alternative funding sources for park acquisition and improvement, including Federal
and State grant assistance, public/private partnerships, private donations, non-profit
agency financial assistance, and other innovative sources.
* Implement phase two of the Arroyo Colorado Bike and Jog Trail and proceed with
efforts to acquire any needed rights-of-way and easements.
* Actively promote and participate in the development of facilities and programs for the
World Birding Center, especially the satellite facilities to be located in Harlingen at
Ramsey Park and at other locations in the city along the Arroyo Colorado.
* Acquire and maintain sufficient unique natural areas and significant open spaces for
public use, with special attention to high quality natural or open space areas that are
likely to be developed with incompatible uses in the near future.
* Develop renovation, improvement master plans for each park, as well as a tentative
schedule for phasing in improvements.
* Address key safety and accessibility needs as quickly as possible.
Intermediate/Long Term
* Create a second major Sports Complex on the east side of the city.
* Plan, coordinate, acquire, and maintain public open space based upon consideration of
scenic and unique natural characteristics and important natural functions that the land
performs.
* Use linear parks and greenbelts to create low maintenance additions to the park system.
* Implement plans to convert the Municipal Solid Waste Landfill property to park and
recreation use, when the City has completed the conversion of its solid waste collection
and disposal system to transport collected waste to a remote landfill location and properly
closed and stabilized the existing landfill.
* Investigate and pursue "Rails-to-Trails" opportunities as railroad relocation and
abandonment occurs in the future.
* Expand golfing opportunity and tourism attractions by constructing additional publicuse golf courses and driving ranges.
* Periodically update the long-range plan and standards to reflect changing conditions in
the city.
Ongoing
* Implement a long-range program for expansion and development of Harlingen's parks
system based upon the City of Harlingen Park and Open Space Master Plan.
* Encourage and provide opportunities for citizens to participate in planning,
development, maintenance and operation of the City's parks and open space system.
* Provide adequate funding, resources and personnel to perform necessary maintenance
and repairs and to construct needed improvements at the City's existing and future parks
and recreation facilities.
* Use low-maintenance design plans for future park properties.
* Encourage and promote sports and recreation activities, cultural activities, community
activities, and special events to enhance tourism and visitation within the area.
* Develop the recreational resources and opportunities which are inherent in the
landscape and outdoor environment of the Valley, including water recreation, bird
watching, golfing, hunting and fishing, theme parks, and natural areas.
*Provide facilities for a wide range of active and passive recreation activities including
baseball, softball, soccer, football, basketball, tennis, swimming, biking, bicycle
motocross, in-line skating, shuffleboard, fishing, picnicking, hiking, bird watching, and
other popular activities.
*Enhance and preserve the environmental quality of the Arroyo Colorado by protecting
and improving its importance for open space, drainage, water quality, habitat for plants
and wildlife, outdoor recreation, scenic landscape amenities, and natural areas for the
City of Harlingen and the entire Valley.
* Establish and maintain bird sanctuary areas that will enhance and maintain birdlife,
promote birding activity, and develop eco-tourism.
* Support and participate in efforts to develop ecotourism and nature tourism in the Texas
Gulf Coast, the Valley, and the Harlingen area. Encourage establishment and
maintenance of bird sanctuary areas. Promote the growth of birding activity as well as
golfing, hunting, fishing, and water recreation as they benefit local economic
development.
* Encourage educational institutions and nonprofit organizations to acquire, manage, and
operate natural and open space conservation areas.
* Create and preserve green belt linkage of parks, open spaces, drainage-ways, irrigation
canals, bikeways, paths, and natural areas throughout the City.
* Coordinate with Cameron County, the City of San Benito and other municipalities,
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers, International Boundary and Waterway Commission, and other Federal,
State and local governmental entities in efforts to preserve and enhance the waterways,
green spaces, and natural areas within the Harlingen area.
*Promote the use of native plant materials and xeriscape to reduce maintenance and
irrigation costs in parks and on city properties.
* Encourage Commission member, city employee and citizen involvement in improving,
expanding and maintaining the park, recreation and open space system.
* Take an active role in supporting enhancement and visitation for the Santa Ana and
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuges, Arroyo Colorado State Park, and Bentsen
State Park, and other natural attractions and ecotourism destinations in the Harlingen area
and the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
* Expand and improve the Tony Butler Municipal Golf Course to serve additional user
and enhance the quality and availability of golfing opportunities for residents and visitors
the Harlingen area.
DRAINAGE
Intermediate/Long Term
* Prepare and maintain an up to date storm drainage master plan for the Harlingen area,
and implement the recommended improvements in cooperation with other governmental
jurisdictions.
* Prepare and maintain an up to date storm drainage master plan for Harlingen area, and
implement the recommended improvements in cooperation with other governmental
jurisdictions. Ongoing
* Maintain stringent administration and enforcement of the City's Floodplain
Management Program in accord with applicable State and Federal requirements, in order
to utilize sound floodplain management principles and continue eligibility for residents
and property owners to participate in the Flood Insurance Program.
* Subdivision plat standards should require adequate drainage improvements for new
development, including off-site drainage improvements directly related to the
development, showing the location of flood hazard areas on the plat, avoiding
encroachment on floodplain areas, determining the most appropriate means to elevate the
lowest floor of habitable buildings about the regulatory flood height in accordance with
sound engineering practice, and placing streets and public utilities relative to the flood
protection elevation.
* Property owners who have reason to believe an identified flood hazard area is incorrect
or has been altered by other improvements should be encouraged to obtain a Letter of
Map Amendment (LOMA) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
*Minimize the potential for flood damages to existing and future development by
requiring proper finished floor elevation designation on final plats and in new
construction plans.
* Maintain up to date training of the City's Floodplain Administrator as provided by
qualified agencies.
* The City and Cameron County Drainage District #5 should cooperate to obtain letters
of map amendment for flood areas to FEMA.
* Support adequate public funding availability to ensure drainage system development,
operation and maintenance. This should include developer participation and/or provision
as needed to serve their developments.
* Regular maintenance should be performed to maintain the water carrying capacity of
drainage facilities, including removal of trees, trash, sediment and other debris or
obstructions.
* Upgrade existing drainage facilities by concrete lining ditches where technically and
economically feasible.
* Planning for new development and redevelopment should include analysis increases of
storm drainage impact and identification of drainage improvements needed to
accommodate increased stormwater runoff.
* Coordinate floodplain management and drainage improvement planning with other
governmental agencies responsible for stormwater management in adjacent areas.
* Acquire additional right-of-way necessary to construct future storm drainage and flood
protection improvements through subdivision processes.
* Require development to incorporate adequately designed drainage improvements,
including appropriate use of detention ponds to reduce discharge of stormwater to the rate
that can be accommodated by the downstream drainage system.
* Coordinate with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) when constructing
new transportation corridors to ensure adequate drainage needs are planned to prevent
future costly increases.
WATER AND
WASTEWATER
Ongoing
* Continue to build partnerships and encourage mutually beneficial cooperation between
systems in order to better provide for the development needs of the region.
* Continue to monitor water and wastewater needs based on population growth and plan
ahead to provide adequately forsuch population.
HOUSING &
NEIGHBORHOODS
Intermediate/Long Term
* Conduct a residential market analysis study to identify and evaluate the demand and
need for various types and price ranges of housing, including single-family, multi-family,
and affordable housing. The study should analyze supply and demand factors, and
evaluate the impact of existing development regulations and housing programs, and
recommend appropriate policies and actions to better support the provision of an
adequate supply of housing in response to identified needs..
* Implement needed public infrastructure maintenance, restoration and improvements in
older neighborhoods, including adequate streets, sidewalks, street lights, water, sewer and
drainage. Utilize assessment districts to fund major improvements in qualifying
neighborhoods. Utilize Community Development Block Grant funds for eligible
improvements in target areas.
* Develop a range of housing types and price levels within the Harlingen area. Consistent
with established code requirements, affordable housing development which utilizes
economic building materials and construction techniques, housing finance assistance
programs, and innovative approaches should be considered in appropriate locations.
* Utilize innovative financing techniques such as tax increment financing, industrial
revenue bonds, and benefit district financing to aid redevelopment projects and public
facility improvements.
Ongoing
* Pursue the development of public/private partnerships in an effort to initiate
development and redevelopment projects
* Identify and continue to pursue Federal and State programs which will broaden housing
choices for citizens of Harlingen.
* Promote scattered site developments for public and assisted housing as opposed to
"project" housing developments. Work in conjunction with the Harlingen Housing
Authority and Harlingen Community Development Corporation to inform citizens of the
housing needs and opportunities for the community.
* Promote development, redevelopment, and renovation of residential uses in Harlingen's
neighborhoods, including the Central Business District. Such developments should not
negatively impact existing neighborhoods and should be compatible with existing and
planned uses.
* Encourage the organization and function of neighborhood civic associations to provide
appropriate participation opportunities for public involvement in government decisionmaking. Seek their participation in planning for public facilities and improvement serving
their neighborhoods and the community. The City should maintain a directory of
community and neighborhood organizations for use in mailing public notices and other
public information.
ECONOMICS
Ongoing
* The City Commission, Harlingen Development Corporation and Chamber of
Commerce should jointly design and coordinate economic development and marketing
efforts to target, attract and expand desirable types of industry and business that will
create jobs, increase income, and maintain environmental quality.
* A unique incentive package for industry examining the possibility of locating in
Harlingen should be consolidated, coordinated and developed, to offer additional
advantage to Harlingen prospects.
*Work with Texas State Technical College, Cameron County Private Industry Council,
and existing/potential local industries to provide technical training to improve labor skills
for an expanding, trained work force. Continue to emphasize high technology training
availability.
* Maximize availability of job training funding from public and quasi-public sources to
take optimum advantage of leveraging private funds.
* Involve and utilize Texas State Technical College in economic and industrial
development efforts as a training and educational resource for benefit of existing and
potential employers. Enhance the partnership with TSTC in attracting industrial growth
and opportunity.
* Economic development activities undertaken by the City, HDC, and the Chamber
should target desirable types of industry and business that create high/higher wage jobs
and attract high quality types of employers.
* Take a leadership role in a valley wide, cooperative economic development and
regional marketing approach, working in cooperation with the other communities in a
consolidated and coordinated effort for the betterment of the entire region.
* Work with local industries to provide needed public infrastructure improvements to
efficiently accommodate industrial growth and economic development, including
transportation, water, wastewater, drainage, solid waste, and community services.
* Public information and tourism marketing information and programs should incorporate
and emphasize the theme of Harlingen's role as the shopping, recreation, entertainment,
sports, and cultural center of the Rio Grande Valley. The theme is enhanced by activities
and facilities such as the Harlingen Sports Complex, White Wings Baseball, public golf
courses, Municipal Auditorium, Casa Del Sol, Jackson Street Historic District, downtown
entertainment district, Arroyo Colorado Bike and Jog Trail, gateway to South Padre
Island and Mexico, etc.).
* Establish, promote and support community cultural arts and entertainment activities and
organizations, including museums, art and craft shows, art studios and galleries,
community festivals, performing arts, Rio Fest and other arts and music festivals, antique
shows, and other activities.
* Work with Harlingen's State and Federal legislative delegation to promote the
development of a South Texas Regional Medical School/Health Sciences Educational
Center and VA Hospital in Harlingen, building upon the existing regional medical
facilities in the area including Valley Regional Medical Center and South Texas State
Hospital.
*Undertake a Feasibility Study for developing a new Harlingen Visitors Reception
Center and Civic/Convention Center Complex. A centrally located facility might include
tourism and lodging information services; meeting and exhibition facilities; a conference
hotel; restaurant; intermodal transportation terminal for bus, taxi, autos, and airport
travelers; and centralized public parking.
*Improve the Tyler and Harrison Streets Business District west of the railroad tracks to
support development of small businesses. Expansion of the Downtown Improvement
District should be accomplished to extend its benefits over more of central Harlingen.
Entertainment, cultural arts, antiques, specialty restaurants, and other unique business
ventures should be encourage to accomplish revitalization and renovation of this historic
business and commercial district.
* Develop a "Railyard Antique District" as a shopping and tourism attraction in the
Jackson Street District.
* Investigate the potential for downtown lofts development for residential use in the
Central Business District.
* Develop and emphasize retirement and specialty tourism opportunities designed to
create a special niche in the tourism market, including eco-tourism venues such as the
Harlingen Birding Festival.
* Work with the owners and lenders to support the reopening or appropriate
redevelopment/reuse of the Valley Greyhound Race Track as a component of the area's
recreational attractions and economic assets.
* Cooperate with private developers and land owners to develop commercial facilities
such as the proposed Outlet Mall, major retailers, hotels and motels, restaurants, existing
and new public golf courses, recreational developments, special attractions, and other
facilities and activities that will expand the economic and cultural base of the community.
* Nurture and support growth of existing business and manufacturing concerns already
located in the Harlingen area.
* The City should develop an information management system for planning and
development, which includes a Geographic Information System (GIS) for accessing,
analyzing and presenting geographical and quantitative information about Harlingen's
resources and development opportunities. Such as system should include information on
land parcels and ownership, buildings and other structures, public rights-of-way and
easements, streets and highways, public utilities, demographic and socioeconomic
information, and other data. Development and use of the GIS should be performed as a
joint effort by all affected City departments and agencies.
Capital ImprovementsPlanning and Budgeting
Development of a capital improvements program should be linked to the preparation of
the Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan. Capital funding needs can be estimated for the
capital improvements identified in the major elements of the Comprehensive Plan. Since
this is a 25-year plan, the cost estimates should be order-of-magnitude estimates that can
be refined based on further studies and planning for specific needs and improvement
projects.
Capital Improvements Program Process
A Capital Improvements Program (CIP) offers a systematic approach to planning and
financing capital projects. Although capital improvements programming cannot totally
eliminate inefficiencies and the element of chance, a well-prepared CIP based on the
comprehensive plan offers the following advantages:
* Anticipating future capital facility needs;
* Establishing priorities based upon relative needs;
* Correlating projects to meet community goals, financial capabilities and anticipated
growth;
* Eliminating duplication and poorly planned expenditures;
* Encouraging cooperation with other governmental units;
* Establishing work schedules and cost estimates, thereby aiding local officials in
projecting future expenditures;
* Providing an opportunity for early selection and acquisition of needed land before it
increases in value or is lost to other uses;
* Helping the City get ready to apply for state and federal assistance;
* Enabling developers and public utility companies to plan improvements in anticipation
of future capital facilities; and,
* Developing public support for future capital expenditures.
Role of CIP in Planning and Management
The CIP is a five-year planning process that has a direct link to the city annual budget
and appropriation cycles. The annual Capital Budget puts the CIP into action. The first
year of the Capital Improvements Program becomes the basis for the Capital Budget for
that fiscal year, and the remaining four years are the longer term capital programming
document. The CIP is updated annually. The current year is eliminated and another year
is added at the end so that it will always be a five-year program.
The CIP process is a mechanism for analyzing the city financial condition and projecting
what it is likely to be in the near future. By undertaking a financial analysis as part of the
CIP, the city is able to predict, with reasonable accuracy, its capacity to finance capital
improvements after it has paid its basic operating expenses. Once this capacity has been
identified, a fiscal program is developed. The financial analysis also estimates the impact
that capital expenditures will have on the operating budget.
The Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan is concerned with physical facilities and services
as well as population growth and land use. The Plan provides guidelines for capital
project selection and assignment of priorities. The Capital Improvements Program, along
with the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and official maps, is a device for
implementing the long-range comprehensive plan.
Capital improvements include facilities such as utility systems, landfills, public buildings,
land acquisition, parks, streets and sidewalks, drainage, libraries and major equipment.
These are items that may have a significant impact on the community and are often too
expensive to be financed in the annual operating budget.
The distinction between a capital expenditure and an operating expenditure is not always
precise. Capital projects tend to be relatively expensive and are often financed by
borrowing. They are non-recurring, that is they do not occur every year, and they usually
have a life expectancy of several years.
Preparation of a Capital Improvements Program involves difficult decisions. There are
nearly always more worthwhile projects to consider than there are dollars to fund them.
The Continuing Planning Process
Circumstances will continue to change in the future and the Vision 2020 plan will require
modifications and refinements to be kept up-to-date and current. Some of its proposals
will be found unworkable and other solutions will continue to emerge. Needed
refinements and changes should be carefully noted and thoroughly considered as part of
the Annual Plan Updates and 5-Year Major Plan Revisions. As change occurs,
however, Harlingen's vision should remain the central theme and provide a unifying
element. The plan's importance lies in the commitment of citizens to agree on Harlingen's
purposes for the future, and to apply that consensus in continuing efforts that focus on the
betterment of their community.
Citizen Participation in Continuing Planning
Harlingen's citizens shared in developing the plan's goals, objectives and proposals by
participating in public meetings and planning workshops. The many ideas and comments
contributed by citizens during the plan's development were incorporated and shaped the
resulting proposals and recommendations. Similarly, the citizens should continue to be
involved in implementation and maintenance of the comprehensive plan. Advisory
committees, public meetings and community workshops, town meetings, public forums,
newsletters, media releases, and public notices should be utilized to inform and involve
citizens in continuing planning. Methods and activities for public participation should be
carefully chosen and designed to achieve meaningful and effective involvement.