The people of Eagle Pass are calling on Texas Governor Greg Abbott to return Shelby Park, a city-owned public space, to local control. Once a hub for community recreation, the 47.4-acre park on the banks of the Rio Grande River has been closed to the public under the state’s controversial Operation Lone Star.
Shelby Park, a beloved feature of the city, offers a variety of amenities, including two ball fields, two soccer fields, a boat ramp, and ample parking. Its picturesque location along the Rio Grande has made it a popular spot for family gatherings, outdoor activities, and community events. Residents say its closure has deprived them of a critical recreational space and a symbol of their city’s connection to the river.
Recent data showing a sharp decline in border crossings has fueled the demand for the park’s return. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reports that undocumented migrant crossings are now at their lowest levels since 2019, prompting many to question the continued use of the park for border enforcement purposes.
The Eagle Pass Business Journal has amplified the community’s calls for action on social media, stating, “Return Shelby Park to the people of Eagle Pass, Texas!” The sentiment reflects widespread frustration among residents who believe the park should once again serve its original purpose as a community space.
Operation Lone Star, launched by Abbott’s administration, has faced criticism for its use of public lands in its efforts to curb illegal migration. While some have defended the operation as necessary for border security, the decline in crossings has led to increasing pressure to restore local resources like Shelby Park.
For Eagle Pass residents, the return of Shelby Park is about more than recreation; it’s about reclaiming a part of their community’s identity and ensuring access to the spaces that make their city unique. With growing calls for its restoration, many hope the park will soon be returned to the people who call Eagle Pass home.
