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Weslaco is a city in southern Texas located in Hidalgo County. With a population of over 39,000 as of the 2020 census, it is one of the larger cities in the Rio Grande Valley region. Weslaco has a rich history and offers many attractions and things to see and do for both residents and visitors.

Population and Demographics

According to the latest census data, Weslaco has a population of 39,499 people. The racial makeup of the city is approximately 83.7% Hispanic or Latino, 13.5% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.1% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, and 2.0% Two or More Races.

History

The city of Weslaco was founded in 1919 and developed as a result of the arrival of the San Benito and Rio Grande Valley Railway. Weslaco got its name by combining the names of W.E. Stewart and Lewis Coleman, who were executives at the railroad company responsible for establishing the town as a rail stop and community in the valley.

During the 1920s, Weslaco became the headquarters for a network of irrigation canals built by the United States Reclamation Service to allow agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley. This spurred development and population growth in the new town. By 1928, Weslaco had incorporated as a city with a population of over 1,500 residents.

Like other cities in the Rio Grande Valley, Weslaco's economy has historically been based around agriculture. Cotton, grapefruit, sugar cane, onions, and other crops have been mainstays for the local economy for generations. More recently, manufacturing, trade, and tourism have also become important industries as well.

Attractions and Landmarks

Despite its small size, Weslaco offers visitors several unique attractions and landmarks to see:

Weslaco Museum

The Weslaco Museum features exhibits and information dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the city. Located at 115 W. Railroad Street, Weslaco, TX 78596, (956) 968-9142.

Famous Weslaco Water Tower

Standing over the city since 1927, Weslaco's historic water tower has become a famous landmark and symbol of the town. The water tower is located near the city center at 262 E 4th St, Weslaco, TX 78596. Here are the GPS coordinates: 26.157211, -97.990815.

City Plaza and fountain

The scenic City Plaza and fountain in downtown Weslaco provides a nice public space to enjoy the South Texas weather. Located at 255 S. Kansas Ave., Weslaco, TX 78596. GPS coordinates: 26.158919, -97.992363

Estrella Park

Estrella Park is a public park in Weslaco featuring picnic areas, sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. Located at 200 N. Border Ave., Weslaco, TX 78596. GPS coordinates: 26.166689, -97.998663

Economy and Major Employers

Some of the major industries and employers that drive Weslaco's economy include:

Agriculture

Agriculture and food processing have historically been major employers in Weslaco. Major companies include Santa Rosa Fruit (1219 E 6th St, Weslaco, TX 78596) and Texas Produce (901 Doolittle Rd, Weslaco, TX 78596).

Manufacturing

Manufacturing companies with facilities in Weslaco include CMT, a toymaker (810 S Colorado St, Weslaco, TX 78596), and Knife Aid, which makes medical instruments (608 N Border Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596).

Healthcare

Major healthcare employers include Valley Baptist Medical Center (1011 N Bridge Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596) and Rio Grande State Center, a state psychiatric hospital (1017 N Bridge Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596).

Retail and Trade

Public Library

The Weslaco Public Library offers a variety of resources and services for education and entertainment. Located at 525 S Kansas Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596, (956) 968-3127.

Museum

The Weslaco Museum highlights local history and culture. See above for more details.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Weslaco and Hidalgo County is provided by Valley Metro. Bus routes serve popular destinations within the city as well as connecting to other cities in the Rio Grande Valley.

County and City Government

Weslaco is located in Hidalgo County. The Hidalgo County government offices are located at 100 E Cano St, Edinburg, TX 78539. Phone: (956) 318-2100.

The Weslaco City Hall address is 255 S Kansas Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596. Phone: (956) 968-3181. Weslaco city government website: www.weslacotx.gov

School Districts

Public schools in Weslaco are managed by the Weslaco Independent School District. The district serves Weslaco and surrounding areas. The main WISD Administration Building is located at 319 W 4th St, Weslaco, TX 78596. Phone: (956) 969-6500.

Weslaco is also served by South Texas College, a community college based in McAllen, TX with a campus located in Weslaco at 411 N. Bridge Avenue. Phone: (956) 969-2680.

Sports

The Weslaco High School Panthers football team plays its home games at Bobby Lackey Stadium (1005 W Pike Blvd, Weslaco, TX 78596). Weslaco is also home to the RGV FC Toros, a professional soccer team.

Local Resources

• Weslaco Chamber of Commerce
• Weslaco Economic Development Corporation
• Weslaco Independent School District
• Weslaco Public Library
• Weslaco Parks & Recreation
• Weslaco Municipal Airport

In addition to all it has to offer residents, Weslaco provides visitors a great home base for exploring the larger Rio Grande Valley region. It provides a taste of the local culture and many amenities, while being conveniently located near other popular Valley destinations.