The city of Uvalde lies at the intersection of highways 83 and 90, which are two of the country’s longest highways. Highway 83 spans the distance between Brownsville, TX and Canada, while Highway 90 runs from Florida to California. According to the 2000 Census, Uvalde, TX is home to nearly 15,000 residents.
Uvalde, Texas serves as the seat of Uvalde County and takes its name in honor of Spaniard Juan de Ugalde. This southwest TX County nestles midway between San Antonio and the International Amistad Reservoir found on the United States-Mexico border. Other major towns in Uvalde County, TX include Knippa, Sabinal and Utopia. Several rivers, including the Dry Frio, Frio, Leona, Nueces and Sabinal rivers, flow through Uvalde County. The existence of such a high number of waterways earned Uvalde County the title of “County of 1,000 Springs”.
Uvalde, TX projects a business friendly attitude that continues to draw new industry to this quickly expanding region. Uvalde takes pride in its federal designation as an Empowerment Zone and Enterprise Community and affords federal, regional and state incentives for local businesses. International relations with Mexico, local training resources and a large labor pool also poise Uvalde as an ideal location for new and expanding businesses.
Uvalde, TX lies against a scenic backdrop, where a refreshingly moderate climate greets residents and visitors year round. Popular destinations include the Aviation Museum of Texas, the Briscoe Art and Antique Collection, Cook's Slough Sanctuary, Garner State Park, the Uvalde Memorial Park and the Uvalde Riverwalk. The attractions most unique to Uvalde include the Janey Slaughter-Briscoe Grand Opera House, the John Nance Garner Home and Museum and the Sahawe Indian Outdoor Theater.
Licensed hunters have access to feral hogs, javelina, quail, turkey, and whitetail deer. Uvalde, Texas has a golf club and there is also a sporting clay range within a reasonable driving distance. Several community celebrations, such as the Ghost Lantern Tour held each October, bring the residents together throughout the year. Uvalde is also renowned for its production of honey.
Residents of Uvalde, TX make education a top priority. The Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District serves the city and several options for private school are within a reasonable driving distance. Students in search of post-secondary educational facilities have easy access to the Rio Grande College and the Southwest Texas Junior College. Rio Grande College, which affiliates with Sul Ross University, affords local students access to various bachelors and masters degrees.
Uvalde, Texas holds the prominent position of county seat, with a centralized, international location and strong pro-business environment. Uvalde may well be the “Best Kept Secret in the West”.
