BCIC Town Talks Seek Public Input to Shape Brownsville’s Future

PRESS RELEASE – Thursday, February 1, 2024 – Brownsville, TX – The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) kicks off a new strategic planning process that will create a blueprint for future economic development and community development growth for the larger Brownsville region. BCIC is a Type B economic development organization dedicated to connecting people, organizations, and economic resources to elevate the quality of life in Brownsville. As a type B organization, BCIC receives public funding to support both economic development and quality-of-life improvement projects.

After conducting a competitive RFP process, BCIC selected an economic development consortium, Economic Development BY DESIGN, to develop the strategic plan and to lead an extensive community engagement process. The consortium includes O’Brian & Associates, Upsize Marketing Strategies, Goldstone Consulting Group, and MRR & Associates. This experienced group of economic development and community engagement professionals collectively possess more than a century of experience in economic development, strategic planning, multicultural community engagement, business development, and marketing.

“Choosing the Economic Development BY DESIGN to craft our blueprint for future prosperity is a testament to our commitment to strategic growth and inclusive community development. Together, we pave the way for a thriving future that lifts up every member of our community,” said Cori Pena, BCIC President & CEO.

The community-led strategic plan will gather public input through a series of focus groups with business and community leadership, one-on-one interviews with Brownsville leaders, and four public town-hall style meetings titled Town Talks: Your Voice Shapes Brownsville’s Future. At these public meetings, BCIC will seek feedback on a ten-year vision for the greater Brownsville region, community development needs, economic development challenges and opportunities, and more. This feedback will inform the new strategic plan, creating a blueprint for future growth and prosperity.

BCIC Town Talks

Date: Monday, Feb 12, 2024
Time:  Session from 5:30 - 7:00 PM (5 PM doors open)
Location: Main Branch Library | 2600 Central Blvd., Brownsville, TX

Date: Tuesday, Feb 13, 2024
Time: Session from 5:30 - 7:00 PM, (5 PM doors open)
Location: Southmost Branch Library | 4320 Southmost Blvd., Brownsville, TX

Date: Wednesday, Feb 14, 2024
Time: Session from 10:15  - 11:45 AM (9:45 AM doors open)
Location: eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization | 1304 E. Adams St., Brownsville, TX

Date: Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024
Time:  Session from 5:30 - 7:00 PM (5:00 PM doors open)
Location: eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization | 1304 E. Adams St., Brownsville, TX

The four Town Talks will be conducted in Spanish and English to engage the largest number of diverse representation for all members of the community. BCIC will launch extensive community engagement efforts to reach residents, students, elected officials, K-12, higher education, workforce organizations, community and business leaders, entrepreneurs, small business owners, nonprofits, developers, realtors, hospitality and tourism stakeholders, and others. We want to hear your voice in shaping the future of Brownsville. The Town Talks will be free to the public, and light refreshments will be served.

The City of Brownsville’s Mayor, John Cowen, commented, “I see our city's strength in the diverse voices that make up our community. These town hall meetings are among your best platforms to be heard, contribute, and shape our city's future. I invite each and every one of you to join this vital conversation. Your insights and experiences are the keys to building a more inclusive and prosperous Brownsville for all.”