The city of Brownsville launched a new survey asking residents to share their thoughts on what projects should be prioritized and how money should be spent.

Brownsville Assistant City Manager Doroteo Garcia said the survey is the first of its kind for the city.

"This is a great time to get that citizen input," Garcia said. "There's a lot of growth; there are a lot of changes. We have some capital for our projects, so we want to make sure the work we're doing is in alignment with our citizens."

City leaders say the results will help guide future projects and spending decisions, but some residents aren't sure their feedback will lead to real change.

Juan Martinez, said he deals with bad roads, potholes, flooding, and ongoing construction every day. He said International Boulevard has been in poor condition for years.

Martinez said he'd like to see faster improvements but isn't confident the survey will make a difference.

"I don't think so," Martinez said. "Maybe more people have a similar thought process as me, but if there's no change, then obviously they didn't see any difference in what I had to say."

Garcia said that's exactly why the city is pushing for more participation. He said the city plans to be transparent about the results and use them to shape plans.

"We're ready to put this into action as soon as possible for the people, and the communication of it, the transparency, is what we're going to work really hard to make sure that data is out there," Garcia said. "We don't want to candy-coat it to where we only show the good."

Garcia also addressed concerns about road construction. He said while it may slow drivers down, the projects are major long-term improvements.

"Right now the biggest complaint we get is, ‘why do we have so many streets under construction?’ We're doing something with our money," Garcia said. "People are seeing actual visible projects."

Garcia said the projects take time because they're more intensive than typical road repairs.

Martinez said his message to city leaders is simple.

"Try to be for the people," Martinez said. "Just imagine yourself in positions as us."

The survey closes on May 16, 2026, and Brownsville residents can access it online.

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