Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of North Rooth Road Siphon Project

McALLEN, TEXAS – Hidalgo County Precinct 4, in partnership with the City of McAllen and Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 1, celebrated the groundbreaking of the North Rooth Road Siphon Project on the morning of August 13, 2025.

This collaborative effort is the result of an interlocal cooperation agreement between the three entities, designed to improve water infrastructure and enhance safety for area residents. The scope of work includes the installation of a siphon crossing—an underground structure that allows canal and drainage systems to intersect without disrupting water flow. Siphon crossings are essential for efficient water management, maintaining the natural flow of both irrigation canals and drainage channels.

“This project holds great importance for our community,” said Commissioner Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Precinct 4. “It will significantly improve public access and safety for many of our residential neighborhoods, while also serving several schools in the area, including Elias Longoria Middle School, IDEA Quest College Preparatory, and United Kingdom Daycare. By making these improvements, we’re not just upgrading infrastructure—we’re creating safer routes for families, students, and educators every single day.”

Last year, Precinct 4 completed paving work on North Rooth Road to improve travel and safety. Road and Bridge crews resurfaced the roadway from the county limits at the canal and continued north within Precinct 4’s jurisdiction. Following that work, officials identified the need to address the crossing for improved safety.

Meetings between project partners led to a coordinated plan to move forward. The project, valued at approximately $654,275, is expected to remain under construction through mid-October 2025.

This initiative underscores the value of regional collaboration in addressing infrastructure needs and the shared commitment to enhancing public safety, water management, and community connectivity.