JUNE 2026
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION
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CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed in Galveston with news the war had ended and the enslaved were free. It was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect.
A century and a half later, we continue to celebrate Juneteenth, now a federal holiday. It’s a time for reflection, rejoicing, and learning about local black history and culture.
We invite you and your family to celebrate with two free events this month:
Freedom Walk and Unity
Thursday, June 18
9-11 a.m.
Lincoln Recreation Center
Join community members and summer camp participants for a legacy walk around W.A. Tarrow Park, followed by storytelling at the Lincoln Recreation Center.
Party at the Pavilion
Thursday June 18
6-8:30 p.m.
W.A. Tarrow Pavilion
Celebrate a day of jubilee with music, activities, cultural programs and community spirit.
Roadway Project Update
| MARION PUGH DRIVE (Holleman to George Bush)
Construction started on Jan. 7 and is expected to be completed in early 2027.
Cost: $9.2 million
Funding: Certificates of obligation and utility revenue
Funds: Streets Projects, Water Projects, Wastewater Projects
| WILLIAM D. FITCH PARKWAY REHABILITATION (Phase 2)
Construction started on Nov. 1 and is expected to be completed in late 2026.
Cost: $5.4 million
Funding: Streets Capital Projects Fund
| VICTORIA AVENUE AND CREEK MEADOWS ROUNDABOUT
Construction is expected to start in the early fall and be completed in summer 2027.
Cost: $4.3 million
Funding: Streets Capital Projects Fund
| GREEN PRAIRIE ROAD (County Portion)
Construction is expected to start in late 2026 and be completed by fall 2028.
Cost: $12.4 million
Funding: Streets Capital Projects Fund
| BARRON ROAD RECONSTRUCTION
Construction is expected to start in late summer and be completed in late 2027.
Cost: $10 million
Funding: Streets Capital Projects Fund
Note: The project does not include the Capstone railroad crossing or the Buckinghamto-Wellborn portion. The Capstone project timeline will be determined in coordination with Union Pacific Railroad and will include the Buckingham-to-Wellborn segment.
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THE GUIDE
2026 GAMES OF TEXAS
The 2026 Summer Games of Texas will return to premier venues across College Station and Bryan for the ninth time from July 30-Aug. 2. The annual athletic festival is managed by the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation and will be hosted by the cities of College Station and Bryan, along with Texas A&M University. Previous host years include 1988, 1994, 2000, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019 and 2025. Thousands of athletes, coaches and spectators will be in town for the Olympic-style festival, providing a significant economic boost and strengthening the community’s reputation as a top destination for sports tourism.
Since its founding in San Antonio in 1986, the Games of Texas has steadily expanded, attracting more than 20,000 visitors and becoming the largest amateur sporting event in Texas. TAAF has been recognized as an official state games program participant by the U.S. Olympic Committee
BUDGET
Did You Know?
While municipal finances are usually a sea of spreadsheets, the City of College Station budget actually has a pretty cool claim to fame: it is an award winner for readability. The City has brought home the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association for 37 consecutive years! Learn
Make Music Day is a celebration of music that takes place on the summer solstice, performed by anyone and enjoyed by everyone. This event is held annually on June 21 and spans the entire day in over 1,000 cities worldwide, including College Station, Texas! You're invited to join the festivities and showcase the vibrant music scene in College Station.
College Station is proud to be designated as a Music-Friendly Texas Community by the Texas Music Office, boasting a thriving community of talented music professionals. We recognize the significant economic impact that the music industry has on the City of College Station!
LEARN HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN
The I Heart America Fourth of July Celebration returns to the Wolf Pen Creek Amphitheater with another spectacular fireworks show set to patriotic music, featuring tasty food and a live concert. Admission is free, and everyone can enjoy complimentary watermelon and sausages on a stick while supplies last. VIDEO
Saturday, July 4
7 p.m.
7:30 p.m.
8 p.m.
9:30 p.m. Gates open
Welcome remarks
Concert
Fireworks
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and coolers no larger than 48 quarts. Food trucks will be on-site, and kids can enjoy a special play area with games and activities to keep them entertained until the big show. Kegs, glass containers, and pets aren’t allowed.
Holleman Drive East will be closed from State Highway 6 to Dartmouth Street, so plan your drive accordingly.
Follow us on Facebook (/CSTXparks) and Instagram (@CSTXparks) to be the first to know which electrifying artist will be performing.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/IHeartAmerica.
MEET THE WOMEN COLLEGE STATION
Women in Engineering Day recognizes the invaluable contributions of female engineers and encourages more women and girls to pursue careers in this dynamic and impactful field.
The talented engineers who serve the City of College Station play a vital role in shaping our community’s innovation, sustainability, infrastructure, and quality of life. Their expertise helps design, improve, and maintain the systems and services residents rely on every day.
Women in Engineering Day was established to celebrate the achievements of women in the profession while inspiring future generations to explore careers in engineering. Here in College Station, we are fortunate to have a remarkable group of dedicated female engineers making a lasting difference across multiple departments.
Please join us in recognizing these outstanding professionals:
WOMEN ENGINEERING
STATION
Capital Projects
• Susan Monnat, P.E., Senior Project Manager
• Raquel Gonzales, P.E., Project Manager
• Melissa Thomas, P.E., Project Manage
Public Works
• Emily Fisher, P.E., Director of Public Works
• DeAnna Ordonez, EIT, Graduate Engineer
Planning & Development
• Carol Cotter P.E., City Engineer
• Gillian Sitler, Graduate Engineer
• Lindsay Pressler, EIT, Graduate Engineer
• Gillian Rowland, Graduate Engineer
Water Services
• Emily Lopez, EIT, Graduate Engineer
• Kyleigh Harrell, EIT, Graduate Engineer II
Thank you for your dedication to serving College Station and for inspiring the next generation of engineers.
LIGHTNING SAFETY
The only thing predictable about Texas weather is its unpredictability. Pleasant spring and summer days can quickly turn into thunderstorms, bringing unexpected rain, wind, hail, and dangerous lightning.
The Earth Networks Outdoor Alert System’s lightning detection capabilities and timely notifications are essential in keeping park visitors informed and safe when hazardous weather approaches. The system detects lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius and alerts park users with one 15-second horn blast and a continually flashing strobe, which means all activities should stop and you should seek shelter immediately.
The online system sets a 30-minute warning period after the first detection and resets to 30 minutes after each additional strike. When the system receives the all-clear, the horn issues three five-second blasts, and the flashing light stops.
No system is fail-proof, so always assess weather conditions before going outside and be prepared to take appropriate actions to ensure safety. Data for lightning events at College Station parks equipped with the alert system is available at cstx.gov/lightning
WATER FIELD DAY WELCOMES 400 PECAN TRAIL STUDENTS
Recently, Water Services welcomed 400 fifth graders from Pecan Trail Intermediate School for Water Field Day. Staff accompanied groups on tours and explained the value of clean water and their part in the process. Students also learned what not to flush and saw the microorganisms that help transform wastewater into clean water. The experience was enriched by rainwater-harvesting demonstrations from Texas A&M AgriLife and
stormwater-runoff lessons from the Natural Resources Conservation Service. This was the fourth year Water Services has collaborated with Brazos Valley Groundwater Conservation District, Texas A&M, and CSISD to create a unique learning opportunity. We understand the importance of educating these students, our future utility customers. A huge thank you to the entire Water Services team for another successful year!
CITY FACILITIES CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH
City offices and facilities will be closed on Friday, June 19, in honor of Juneteenth. Solid waste and recycling collections will operate on their regular schedules.
EXPLORE PUBLIC SERVICE AT CITY COUNCIL 101
Serving on the College Station City Council is a significant commitment. Members devote countless hours to the community without compensation, often following demanding campaigns that require substantial time, energy, and financial resources.
The Mayor’s seat and City Council Places 1 and 2 will be on the ballot for the Nov. 3 general election. Each position carries a four-year term. If you are considering taking the plunge into local politics, the City Council 101 seminar on Tuesday, June 16, is your first step. The free session begins at 6 p.m. in the Bush 4141 Community Room at City Hall. The class provides a comprehensive look at the realities of public service — with no obligation to run.
The seminar is designed to help potential candidates make informed decisions by exploring the requirements, duties, and limitations of the mayor and council members. Key topics include:
• Understanding Open Meetings Act requirements.
• Navigating conflict-of-interest laws.
• Realistic expectations of the time and responsibilities involved.
The filing period for candidacy is July 18 through Aug. 17. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens, qualified Texas voters, and College Station residents for at least one year before Election Day.
Sign Up For Council 101
Photo of the Month
Photography by Brody Lane McKinnon
39TH ANNUAL LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL SERVICE
In May, members of the College Station Police Department joined fellow law enforcement agencies and community members for the 39th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service honoring Texas peace officers who lost their lives in the line of duty in 2025. Held in conjunction with National Police Week, the service provided an opportunity to recognize the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who gave their lives protecting others.
UNEARTH A
STORY WITH THE BRYAN + COLLEGE STATION PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM!
The 2026 Summer Reading theme, Unearth a Story, brings the past to life with dinosaurs, paleontology, archaeology and a special visit from the Dinosaur George Traveling Museum.
The exhibit will be at the Larry J. Ringer Library on Monday, June 22, from 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Tuesday, June 23, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Don’t miss this interactive, familyfriendly experience where visitors of all ages can explore and learn about prehistoric creatures.
“From massive dinosaur skulls to intricate fossil replicas, we present exhibit pieces from around the world, and every time period, that captivate young minds and spark their interest in paleontology and natural sciences.” – Dinosaur George. The library will also have Scavenger Hunts for all ages at the exhibit. Each age category aligns with one of our summer reading program levels. Make sure to pick up your Scavenger Hunt as you enter, fill out the questions and then drop off your completed form in the correct drawing box. Each age group will have one winner for a $25 gift card to Hyperbole Bookstore.
The Dinosaur George Traveling Museum interactive experience is funded by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services through a grant to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission and the Friends of the Bryan + College Station Public Library System.
Don’t forget to register for our all ages Summer Reading Challenge online or on the Beanstack mobile app.
WHAT DO THEY DO: UTILITY CUSTOMER SERVICE
The City of College Station’s Utility Customer Service team provides essential support that helps residents stay connected to critical city services. From managing utility accounts to assisting customers during outages and emergencies, the department serves as a central resource for electric, water, sewer, garbage, roadway maintenance and drainage billing services.
Customer service representatives assist residents with establishing new accounts, processing payments, updating account information and answering billing questions. Applications for utility service may be submitted online, by phone, mail, fax or in person.
Utility accounts may only be listed in one name, and the account holder is responsible for all charges associated with the account. A $30.90 account creation fee is applied to all new accounts and appears on the first bill.
Residents can also manage their accounts through the city’s online Utility Customer Portal, which allows customers to view bills and usage history, make payments and update account information at any time.
In addition to customer account services, the department provides resources to help residents better understand city utilities. The Residential Customer Guide includes information about utility connections, billing, meters, conservation programs and available rebates.
During utility emergencies or outages involving electric, water or wastewater service, customers should have their CSU account number available and call 855.528.4278
The department also helps connect residents with financial assistance resources. Customers needing assistance with utility bills are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or visit 211Texas org for information about available programs and services.
Utility Customer Service also assists some residents who receive water service from another utility provider but are connected to the City of College Station sewer system. Customers who provide at least six months of official water utility bills may qualify for a reduced monthly sewer service charge. For more information, residents may contact Utility Customer Service at utilities@cstx.gov.
Through daily customer support, emergency assistance and account management services, the Utility Customer Service team plays an important role in maintaining reliable city services for the College Station community.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
MONNAT EARNS
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER CERTIFICATION
Senior Project Manager Susan Monnat recently passed the Certified Construction Manager exam. The CCM recognizes professionals who have chosen a career in construction management and have met the prescribed criteria of the construction management certification program regarding formal education, field experience, and demonstrated capability and understanding of the Construction Management Association of America’s body of knowledge.
The CCM is the gold standard in personnel credentials for the construction management profession. It's the only construction management certification accredited by the American National Standards Institute's National Accreditation Board.
UTILITY CONFERENCE SHOWCASES
COLLEGE
STATION'S ORIGINCX
IMPLEMENTATION
At the recent Oracle Utilities User Group Conference in Austin, the City of College Station and Origin highlighted a strong example of utility modernization through a customer-portal session titled “From Calls to Clicks: How College Station Transformed Customer Service.”
The session aligned with the conference’s focus on customer experience, billing, and utility collaboration and featured Utilities Office Manager Jennifer Smith, Financial Support Specialist William Springer, Customer Service Supervisor Carol Rodriguez, and Origin Vice President Madhur Jain.
The session showcased how College Station is modernizing customer service through a more accessible digital experience.
The City's representatives shared how implementing OriginCX has transformed the customer and employee experience. By making it easier for customers to start, stop, and manage service online, the City has reduced call volume, increased self-service, and better supported a large seasonal population.
“Moving to OriginCX was lifechanging. Not just for the staff, but the customers.”
- Jennifer Smith
We are incredibly proud that Jennifer, William, and Carol were invited to speak at a major utility conference and share the innovative work being done in College Station to better serve our customers.
College Main, looking south toward campus (date unknown) Way Back When
Community Kudos
CITIZENS PRAISE COCS EMPLOYEES
POLICE
“THANK YOU to each College Station law enforcement agent. You are appreciated and honored. Pray you are protected and have wisdom as you do your job to help keep us safe”
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT (CYCLE WITH COUNCIL EVENT)
“What a beautiful morning to be on a bike! Thank you to all the city staff who made it happen!”
PARKS AND RECEATION (ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT PATRICK LEWIS )
"I wanted to thank you for going above and beyond to get there SO early to open up the classroom (and bathrooms, ha ha) for our Texas Master Naturalist Youth Program on Birds and Birding with Barefoot University. Your positivity and enthusiasm are so contagious! The kids, parents, and volunteers had a great time birding and doing activities related to birds."
We deeply appreciate these employees for their dedication, professional communication, and customer service, especially over the holidays and on closed days.
CONSTRUCTION ON TEXAS INDEPENDENCE PARK AT MIDTOWN SET TO BEGIN
Construction on Texas Independence Park at Midtown, located at 6291 Rock Prairie Road, is scheduled to begin late this summer. The project will transform more than 120 acres of parkland and greenways into one of the area’s most dynamic public parks with a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities for residents of all ages.
The park includes mountain-bike trails, a pump track, walking paths, two playgrounds for ages 2-5 and 5-12, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Additional amenities will include covered pavilions, restrooms, a fishing pond and parking areas distributed across the site
More than 60 acres of dedicated greenways will remain preserved to help protect local habitat. The park is planned as a regional destination for outdoor recreation, combining active use areas with preserved natural space as the area continues to grow.
Texas Independence Park at Midtown is expected to become a signature destination for the city, offering both active recreation and peaceful green space.
TOP-TIER SPORTS TOURNAMENTS TO ATTRACT 55,000
VISITORS TO COLLEGE
STATION
THIS SUMMER
Ever wonder why College Station stays so lively even after the graduation caps have been tossed and the students head home?
The secret is out: College Station is a premier sports tourism destination. While the lecture halls might be quiet, our worldclass fields are just warming up. Now is the perfect time to look at the massive impact our summer sports schedule has on our community.
It isn’t just luck that keeps our hotels full and our restaurants buzzing. Tournament organizers flock here for three main reasons:
• The “Texas Triangle” Advantage: Our central location makes us the perfect middle ground for teams traveling from Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and beyond.
• Elite Facilities: From manicured diamonds to pristine fields, our outstanding city-owned facilities are second to none.
• Aggieland Hospitality: We treat every visiting family like a local.
The Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for a blockbuster summer with 10 high-level tournaments between May 16 and August 23. The highlight is the Texas Amateur Athletic Association (TAAF) Games of Texas, returning July 30–Aug. 2. These events serve as a massive economic engine, attracting about 55,000 visitors to our shops, hotels and restaurants.
That doesn’t even include the major sports events that Visit College Station and Texas A&M are bringing to Campus this summer. Catch the action at our city-owned facilities throughout the season.
VIEW THE 2026 SUMMER SPORTS SCHEDULE
L PParty
LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE WAY TO CELEBRATE A BIRTHDAY, HOST A FAMILY GATHERING, OR COOL OFF WITH FRIENDS THIS SUMMER? We have you covered with rentals at our popular aquatic facilities! Whether you’re planning a splash-filled party or a relaxing afternoon by the water, Adamson Lagoon and Cindy Hallaran Pool offer fun, affordable options for groups of all sizes.
WANT THE WHOLE POOL TO YOURSELVES?
Private pool rentals include exclusive access to the facility and certified lifeguards, making it easy to enjoy a stressfree summer celebration. Adamson Lagoon even offers rental options for groups of up to 600 people, making it a perfect spot for large parties, reunions, youth groups, and team celebrations.
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING MORE LAID BACK? Reserve a shaded table during public swim hours at Adamson Lagoon and enjoy two hours of sunshine, slides, and poolside fun with family and friends. Each table seats 8–10 people, making it ideal for summer birthdays or weekend hangouts. Reservations for the 2026 season are available now on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait too long to lock in your preferred date. Private pool reservations must be made at least seven days in advance.
RESERVE YOUR RENTAL:
Stay Connected!
Keep up with city events, programs, emergencies, notices, and more by following us on social media. We'd love to hear from you, too!
/CityofCollegeStation
@CityOfCollegeStation
@CityofCS
City of College Station
COLLEGE STATION, A TOP 25 PLACE TO RETIRE IN THE U.S.
College Station is gaining national recognition as a great place to enjoy retirement. Forbes recently highlighted the 25 best affordable places to retire in the U.S., and College Station earned a spot on the list for its low housing costs, favorable tax environment, quality healthcare, and welcoming community atmosphere.
Known for its blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, College Station offers retirees access to parks, cultural events, lifelong learning opportunities, and a strong sense of community. The city’s affordability and high quality of life continue to attract residents looking for an active and comfortable place to call home.
“What’s Up, College Station?”
Video and Podcast
Learn the latest about the City of College Station’s services, events, programs, and more as we chat with leaders and experts from across the organization.
PODCASTS VIDEOS
College Station City Council
RECAPS
OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
MAY
MAY 18: Blog | Video
The College Station City Council meets twice monthly at City Hall.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 6 P.M.
MAY 28: Blog | Video CAN’T MAKE IT IN PERSON?
THURSDAY, JUNE 25, 6 P.M.
The meetings are streamed live on Optimum Channel 19 and cstx.gov/cstv19 and live blogged at blog.cstx.gov
(L-R): William Wright, Bob Yancy, Mark Smith, John Nichols (mayor), David White, Melissa McIlhaney, and Scott Shafer.
CITY OF COLLEGE STATION CONTACTS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
979.764.3690 cstx.gov/cip
CITIZEN BOARDS, COMMISSIONS 979.764.3541 cstx.gov/committees
CODE ENFORCEMENT / SEECLICKFIX
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
979.764.6363 cstx.gov/codeenforcement
979.764.3570 cstx.gov/pds
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 979.764.3625 grow.cstx.gov FIRE DEPARTMENT 979.764.3705 cstx.gov/fire HUMAN RESOURCES 979.764.3517 cstx.gov/hr
979.209.6347 bcslibrary.org MUNICIPAL COURT 979.764.3683 cstx.gov/court
cstx.gov/neighbor
cstx.gov/parks
cstx.gov/pds
cstx.gov/police
cstx.gov/pubcomm
cstx.gov/publicworks
PARKS AND RECREATION CONTACTS
