Residents of Eagle Pass are urging Texas Governor Greg Abbott to return Shelby Park, a city-owned recreational area, to local control as border crossings at the United States-Mexico border reach their lowest levels since 2019. The 47.4-acre park, situated along the scenic banks of the Rio Grande River, has been closed to the public as part of the state’s Operation Lone Star initiative.
Shelby Park has long been a vital part of the community, offering two ball fields, two soccer fields, a boat ramp, and ample parking. Its location along the river has made it a gathering place for families and a venue for community events. However, its closure under Operation Lone Star has sparked frustration among residents who feel they have lost access to an essential public resource.
Recent data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) highlights a significant decline in undocumented migrant crossings, fueling calls for the park’s return. Local leaders argue that the reduced border activity no longer justifies the park’s continued use for enforcement operations.
“Return Shelby Park to the people of Eagle Pass, Texas!” declared the Eagle Pass Business Journal in a recent social media post, echoing the sentiment of residents who believe the park should once again serve its original purpose as a space for recreation and community connection.
Operation Lone Star, launched by Governor Abbott in 2021, has drawn criticism for its impact on border communities, including its use of public spaces like Shelby Park. While some defend the initiative as necessary for border security, the diminishing need for enforcement in areas like Eagle Pass has led many to question its ongoing scope and the resources it consumes.
For Eagle Pass residents, the return of Shelby Park is about more than reclaiming a recreational space. It represents a step toward restoring normalcy and ensuring that local communities have access to the resources that enhance their quality of life. With border crossings at a historic low, many hope state leaders will act to return this cherished park to its rightful owners: the people of Eagle Pass.
Texas Reporter 