Aging U.S. bridges drive multibillion-dollar replacement plans
by Mary Scott Nabers, CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
States are advancing major bridge replacement projects as federal funding accelerates design work ahead of 2026 and 2027 construction solicitations nationwide.
TEFA posts record interest in first enrollment period
Texas’ new school choice program received more than 130,000 applications in three weeks, marking a rapid launch for one of the nation’s largest school choice programs.
Comptroller finalizes overhaul of Historically Underutilized Business program
Texas completes HUB program overhaul, launching VetHUB and limiting state procurement certification to service-disabled veteran-owned businesses.
DIR welcomes new leader to head digital transformation
The Texas Department of Information Resources appointed a new digital transformation director, bringing 16 years of IT leadership experience to the role.
SFA outlines future development, growth in new strategic plans
The UT Board of Regents approved Stephen F. Austin State University’s campus master plan and a new 336-bed residence hall set to begin construction in 2026.
NCTCOG opens call for public-sector mobility tech concepts
North Texas planners opened a call for technology proposals, offering federal funds to advance mobility and safety innovations across 12 counties.
TWDB announces nearly $140M investment in water, wastewater system improvements
The Texas Water Development Board approved $139.6 million for water and wastewater upgrades, including a $59 million expansion of Austin’s Walnut Creek plant.
Starbase pushes plan to annex 7,000 acres of national parks and public, private land
Starbase officials voted to begin annexing 7,133 acres near Boca Chica, including state and federal lands.
Revised DART agreement expands board, reshapes funding
Plano and other member cities back a revised DART funding and governance agreement, canceling some withdrawal elections as $434 million is redistributed to member cities.
Taylor elevates expert to lead communications
The city of Taylor has announced the promotion of Jerrod Kingery to communications manager.
Kingery, a digital marketing and communications expert, previously served with Taylor as a communications specialist prior to his promotion. He brings more than 25 years of experience in broadcasting, production and mass communication to the role. Kingery also played a crucial role in managing, editing and publishing Government Market News, a publication of Strategic Partnerships, Inc.
Nederland appoints new city manager
The Nederland City Council has selected Manuel De La Rosa as the city’s next City Manager, concluding a search that spanned more than a year and included public meet-and-greet sessions and finalist interviews.
De La Rosa, a San Antonio native with nearly 40 years in public service — including roles in public works and executive municipal leadership — was chosen over another finalist and is expected to begin his duties on March 9, 2026. He has emphasized infrastructure priorities, communication, and collaborative leadership as key focuses for his tenure in Southeast Texas.
San Jacinto River Authority names new engineering manager
Aaron Schindewolf has stepped into the role of Engineering Manager at the San Jacinto River Authority.
He will oversee engineering functions and technical project development for the region’s water resource management. His appointment reflects an internal leadership advancement within the authority, which manages water supply and conservation efforts across the San Jacinto River basin in Southeast Texas.
Pflugerville city manager announces retirement
After nearly eight years leading the City of Pflugerville, City Manager Sereniah Breland announced her retirement during a City Council meeting on February 24, 2026.
The council unanimously approved a phased exit plan that will keep Breland in her current role through July 1, after which she will continue in an advisory capacity for the remainder of the year to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Breland has served as city manager since 2018 and is credited with helping shape the city’s organizational culture and overseeing major projects and growth initiatives during her tenure.
Beeville swears in new chief of police
The City of Beeville has formally appointed Ryan Treviño as its permanent Chief of Police, following his tenure as interim chief.
Treviño was unanimously selected and sworn in during a Beeville City Council meeting on February 24, 2026, with city leaders praising his leadership during a period of transition for the police department. Treviño’s appointment reflects strong internal support from law enforcement partners and municipal officials as he takes on the top role for the Beeville Police Department.
Mansfield ISD announces new superintendent
The Mansfield Independent School District Board of Trustees formally hired Dr. Tiffanie Spencer as Superintendent on February 24, 2026, concluding a nationwide search that began after the retirement of Dr. Kimberley Cantu.
A graduate of the district and current Area Superintendent for Accountability and Special Populations, Spencer’s unanimous selection marks a historic milestone as she becomes the district’s next chief executive. Her leadership background includes strategic instructional oversight and community engagement, and she is expected to guide Mansfield ISD’s academic and operational direction moving forward.
Governor’s Appointments (February 21 – 27)
San Jacinto River Authority Board of Directors
Wil Faubel – Montgomery (Reappointed)
Stephanie Johnson – Montgomery (Reappointed)
Rick Mora, M.D. – Spring (Reappointed)
Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision
Marsha Moberly – Lakeway
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