Alpine Mayor Outlines Balanced Growth Strategy for West Texas Community

Mayor Catherine Eaves of Alpine, Texas, recently discussed the city's approach to growth during an interview on The Building Texas Show, emphasizing a balance between development and preservation in West Texas's Big Bend region. Eaves, a retired science educator who moved to Alpine in 2021 and was elected mayor in 2022, highlighted how her background informs her governance style, including creating "City Government 101" classes at City Hall to increase civic engagement among residents.

Educational institutions form a cornerstone of Alpine's strategy, with Sul Ross State University driving local innovation through programs in nursing, law enforcement, and wildlife management. The university also houses the Museum of the Big Bend, which features a world-class map collection. Eaves noted that educational partnerships, including remote learning with Lone Star College, are helping build a skilled workforce and address rural healthcare needs in the community.

A pressing challenge involves emergency services, as the city's contract for these services is nearing expiration. Eaves outlined collaborative solutions being explored with Brewster County, including the potential formation of an Emergency Services District to ensure reliable care for Alpine's growing retiree population. She emphasized monthly leadership meetings with county, school, and university officials as key to addressing such issues, stating, "We're leaning on each other."

Economically, Alpine is experiencing growth with new businesses opening downtown, supported by its recent designation as a Historic Downtown District. The city is rebranding as the "Dark Sky Capital of Texas" to attract astrotourism, capitalizing on its clear night skies. Landmarks like Kokernot Field, a historic baseball stadium, and partnerships with Amtrak are enhancing Alpine's appeal as a destination. Additional local attractions and businesses can be explored through resources like Visit Alpine Texas.

Beyond governance, Eaves hosts "Small Town Big Stories," a podcast preserving Alpine's oral history through interviews with multi-generational residents, available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. This initiative reflects the community's commitment to documenting its pioneer heritage while planning for future growth, ensuring that development decisions support both current residents and generations to come in this unique West Texas setting.