Shelby Park Back Open to the Public

April 14, 2025 – After a year of closure due to Operation Lone Star, Shelby Park in Eagle Pass has officially reopened to the public. The park, which had been under state control for border security purposes, was returned to the city last week. Governor Greg Abbott’s office confirmed the transition, citing improved conditions along the Texas-Mexico border as a reason for ending the state’s use of the park.

A spokesperson for the governor credited the Trump administration’s immigration policies and recent federal actions with helping secure the border, making the park’s continued use unnecessary. Operation Lone Star had utilized the location as a staging ground for law enforcement and National Guard personnel deployed to deter illegal crossings.

Local residents, many of whom have long called for the park’s reopening, welcomed the news. Shelby Park, which sits along the Rio Grande, is a popular gathering spot for families and visitors, and its closure had sparked controversy in the community over access and transparency.

City officials say they plan to resume normal park operations immediately, with efforts underway to assess any maintenance or repairs needed after the prolonged lockdown. The reopening marks a return to normalcy for Eagle Pass residents who have waited over a year to reclaim this public space.