For the past five years, residents of Eagle Pass, Texas, have been navigating not only their daily routes but also the consequences of a major transportation decision made without their input. The concrete median barriers installed by TxDOT, intended to enhance road safety, have instead caused widespread traffic disruption, inconvenienced emergency services, and frustrated countless drivers and business owners.
It’s time for a change — and Aaron Valdez, candidate for Mayor of Eagle Pass, is ready to lead that change.
A Growing Frustration in Eagle Pass
Talk to any local driver, and you’ll hear the same sentiment: the barriers are a burden. Families, small business owners, and daily commuters have expressed growing dissatisfaction over the years. What was meant to streamline safety has ended up complicating travel and increasing delays, especially during peak hours.
Instead of making the roads more navigable, these barriers have forced drivers into longer, more congested routes just to make simple turns.
What Were These Barriers Supposed to Do?
TxDOT originally framed these barriers as a “safety improvement project”. The goal? Reduce head-on collisions and keep traffic in clearly divided lanes.
But while the intentions may have been good, the execution missed the mark — especially in a town like Eagle Pass, where roads are intimately connected to daily life, local businesses, and emergency response routes.
The Local Voices Left Out of the Conversation
One of the biggest issues? Local residents weren’t asked. No town hall meetings, no surveys, no door-to-door discussions. Instead, a major infrastructure project was rolled out with little to no local engagement.
Aaron Valdez believes that’s unacceptable.
“When it comes to Eagle Pass, Eagle Pass should be part of the decision,” he says. “Projects that impact our roads must involve our voices.”
Five Years Later — What’s Really Changed?
Since their installation, the barriers haven’t delivered the promised results. Here’s what they’ve actually led to:
- Longer emergency response times
- Difficult access to local businesses
- Increased U-turns and risky maneuvers
- Driver confusion and rising road rage incidents
Rather than creating safer roads, they’ve contributed to frustration and inefficiency.
The Push for Change Under New Leadership
If elected Mayor, Aaron Valdez pledges to open an honest, proactive dialogue with TxDOT to reassess the barriers. That includes a transparent review of accident data, local feedback, and real-time traffic analysis.
His goal isn’t just about removal — it’s about reevaluation, representation, and restoration of local input.
Smarter Streets Begin With Local Input
Aaron believes the key to effective urban planning is simple: listen to the people who live there.
As Mayor, he’ll advocate for:
- Public forums on road planning
- Better coordination with TxDOT
- A city-led committee focused on traffic and safety
No more surprise projects. No more decisions made from afar.
Why This Issue Symbolizes Bigger Problems
The median barrier issue is just the tip of the iceberg. It highlights a larger struggle — state-level decisions made without local involvement.
Eagle Pass deserves a seat at the table. With Aaron Valdez as Mayor, the city will demand it.
What Eagle Pass Residents Are Saying
“They didn’t ask us, and now we’re stuck with a problem we didn’t create.” – Maria L., Local Business Owner
“It’s a mess during school drop-off. You can’t even make a left anymore.” – Carlos R., Parent
“I’ve seen ambulances get stuck trying to find a route.” – EMT, Eagle Pass
Community voices matter — and they’re calling for action.
Solutions Beyond Removal — Exploring Alternatives
Rather than simply tearing down the barriers, Aaron proposes exploring modern, safer alternatives:
- Roundabouts
- Intelligent traffic light systems
- Center-turn lanes with protective signals
- Flexible bollards or landscaped medians
These options could maintain safety while restoring accessibility.
Valdez’s Pledge for Transparent Leadership
Aaron Valdez’s leadership philosophy is grounded in accountability and clarity. He believes in informed decisions, honest communication, and public trust.
Under his administration:
- No project will move forward without community input.
- City Hall will prioritize transparency.
- Residents will always know where he stands.
How You Can Get Involved
Want to help reshape the future of Eagle Pass? Here’s how:
- Attend public meetings and share your thoughts.
- Sign petitions calling for barrier reevaluation.
- Support candidates like Aaron Valdez who prioritize local voices.
This isn’t just a traffic issue — it’s a civic one.
The Road Ahead — Planning for Eagle Pass’ Future
Eagle Pass is growing. With growth comes opportunity — and responsibility. The city deserves infrastructure that serves its people, not burdens them.
Aaron Valdez sees a future where Eagle Pass thrives with smart planning, respectful partnerships, and empowered communities.