The city of San Marcos, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will host a ribbon cutting to celebrate the completion of the San Marcos River Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project on Wednesday, May 21 at 11 a.m. at Bicentennial Park, 209 S CM Allen Parkway. The public is invited to attend the event, which will include remarks from Mayor Hughson and an overview of the project presented by city staff.
The San Marcos River Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Project began in 2022 after years of planning and focused on the stretch of the San Marcos River from City Park to downstream of Stokes Park. The project aimed to restore ecological functions that had been disrupted by urbanization, invasive species and altered hydrology. Improvements included the removal of invasive plants such as elephant ear and non-native trees, replanting with native riparian and wetland vegetation, and improving stormwater outfalls to reduce erosion and sediment accumulation.
This project enhanced water quality, stabilized riverbanks and created a healthier, more sustainable habitat for local aquatic life. The restoration helps to support federally listed endangered and threatened species that rely on the unique spring-fed ecosystem of the upper San Marcos River.
“Restoring the natural balance of the San Marcos River benefits not only the endangered species that depend on this habitat, but also everyone who enjoys and cherishes the river,” Habitat Conservation Plan Manager Mark Enders said.
The project, authorized under Section 206 of the Water Resources Development Act of 1996, was developed through a costshare agreement between the city of San Marcos and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The total project cost is $4.6 million, including $3.025 million in federal funding and $1.6 million in city contributions, in the form of real estate values of the properties on which the work was performed. Additional support was provided by the Texas General Land Office, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.
“This project is a significant step toward protecting one of our community’s most valuable natural resources,” Director of Engineering and CIP Shaun Condor said. “We’re proud to be part of a partnership that supports a healthier river for future generations.”
Parking for the ribbon cutting will be available at the Children’s Park parking lot, 205 S CM Allen Parkway.
