𝑪𝑰𝑻𝒀 𝑷𝑳𝑨𝑵𝑺 𝑻𝑶 𝑪𝑶𝑵𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑻 𝑨𝑹𝑻 𝑴𝑼𝑺𝑬𝑼𝑴 𝑰𝑵𝑻𝑶 𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑺𝑨𝑻𝑰𝑳𝑬 𝑴𝑼𝑳𝑻𝑰-𝑼𝑺𝑬 𝑪𝑼𝑳𝑻𝑼𝑹𝑬 𝑯𝑼𝑩

The Editor

BROWNSVILLE, Tex. — In a bid to reimagine its urban landscape and invigorate its cultural identity, the city of Brownsville has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform a long-dormant museum into a vibrant community arts and innovation center.

On Monday, city officials and leaders from the Mitte Cultural District announced a public-private partnership that will breathe new life into the former Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts, with an initial investment of at least $2.5 million over the next 18 months.

“This is a new hub for community, art, and culture,” said Daniella Lopez Valdez, executive director of the Mitte Cultural District. “We’re committed to enriching what makes Brownsville beautiful while positioning our city on an international stage.”

The revitalized space is expected to serve as a nexus for local artists, educators, and performers. Plans include art exhibitions, live performances, music and writing classes, and a range of academic and cultural programming. The facility will also feature a multi-use event hall, catering kitchen, and visitor center.

City officials view the project as both a cultural and economic catalyst, designed to draw tourism and foster civic engagement.

“You’re going to see this facility transform into a higher-quality space,” said Mayor John Cowen Jr. “We’re activating the outdoor areas for events, showcasing our local talent, and elevating the role of the arts in Brownsville’s identity.”

                                   

Former Brownsville Museum of Fine Art

The project marks the latest evolution of the Mitte Cultural District, which encompasses a constellation of institutions including the Children’s Museum of Brownsville, the Brownsville Historical Association, Texas Southmost College, and the Gladys Porter Zoo. These organizations are expected to collaborate closely with the new center.

“For us, it’s all about collaboration,” Mayor Cowen added. “The partnership between the city, the Mitte Foundation, and our cultural stakeholders speaks volumes about the kind of leadership and shared vision driving this transformation.”

The center is slated to open in late 2026. In the meantime, organizers are calling on artists and community members to contribute ideas and proposals, ensuring the space reflects the voices and aspirations of Brownsville itself.