‘Natural growth’ worth $100 million in SW McAllen

McALLEN – Economic incentives are often used to spur commercial development and bring jobs, but city leaders said they realized there is $100 million worth of what they’ve dubbed “natural growth” in southwest McAllen, according to construction permits in the past 18 months.

In other words, commercial operations are opening up shop without any of the usual deal sweeteners frequently offered by municipalities to lure in companies.

The Palms Crossing shopping center accounts for much of the growth.

Other businesses include retailers and restaurants such as Harley Davidson, Tilted Kilt, Rodizio Brazilian Steak House, Saltgrass Steak House as well as local favorites like Blue Onion restaurant, RGV Cupcake Factory and Los Asados.

The $45 million McAllen Performing Arts Center broke ground in summer 2014, and a $20 million Embassy Suites Hotel is also under construction next to the convention center.

“We’re now adding the extra dimension of the performing arts center and with that comes all the hospitality and industry growth,” said Rebecca Olaguibel, the city’s retail and business development director of the 150-room hotel with swimming pools, a spa and executive meeting rooms.

Hotel tax revenue is also sky high, according to the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, though mainly due to the presence of National Guard members currently deployed to help secure the border.