Boomtown, USA - The Rio South Texas

EDINBURG, Texas, March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- What a difference a decade makes.  As the 2010 Census results continue to be released, clear lines are being drawn between the big winners and losers. One place that tops the list in growth is a new metro region in the southern tip of Texas called Rio South Texas. Already known for being one of the safest regions in the country, being one of the top areas for job growth and one of the most affordable areas for living, Rio South Texas can add to that mantle of recognition. The recent 2010 Census shows that the population growth in this formerly quiet region has been immense, with a 22.6 percent increase in the four county-region of Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy. The city of McAllen population jumped 22.3% to 129,877.  The bordering community of Edinburg grew an astounding 57.8% to 77,100 and the neighboring city of Mission now has 77,100 after growing population roles by a nearly unheard of 67.8% in ten years. Alton's population grew by an amazing 181.5 percent.

Rio South Texas has grown from a bunch of little border towns into what some would call America's newest big city.  Rio South Texas now has everything you would expect to find in a large city, with multiple award-winning hospitals, and all the major chain stores and restaurants.  New companies continue to announce that they are coming to the region on an almost daily basis. Bass Pro Shops just recently announced it is building a new multimillion-dollar store in Harlingen, Texas.

"You can see from the numbers," Alma Colleli, Vice Chair of RSTEC and Executive Director of San Benito EDC. "The region is growing and the members of RSTEC here have been great at working together to bring business to this area.  The Rio South Texas region is the largest border region in America, the third largest market in Texas, and the 23rd largest market in the U.S."

Rio South Texas Economic Council is dedicated to the promotion of new business opportunities and job creation through private investment in the region.

SOURCE Rio South Texas Economic Council