Nestled halfway between Austin and Houston, Ellinger has embarked on a transformation following its 2020 incorporation. With a population of slightly more than 200 residents and no property tax revenue, the town has faced challenges in providing essential services, particularly water and fire protection. However, a $500,000 Texas Community Development Block Grant (TxCDBG) Community Development Fund grant, paired with other state agency funding, is helping build critical water infrastructure needed for long-term sustainability.
The TxCDBG funding, allocated for new water lines and fire hydrants spanning 7,000 linear feet across Ellinger, marks a pivotal moment in the town’s history. Reliable water infrastructure is a fundamental requirement for any community, ensuring safe drinking water, supporting local businesses, and improving fire protection. The project is 75 percent complete and on track to be completed in March.
The water infrastructure project is a significant step forward, improving water quality and fire protection without increasing residents’ costs. The addition of hydrants is expected to enhance emergency response capabilities, particularly in lower-income areas, and may help reduce homeowner insurance rates. As Ellinger continues to establish itself as a Texas city, this investment lays the groundwork for ensuring safe and reliable services for its residents for years to come.
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) offers funding opportunities to local non-entitlement communities through programs like the Community Development Fund and the Downtown Revitalization Program. While the Community Development Fund is closed, the Downtown Revitalization Program is open and is offering up to $1 million for infrastructure improvements in areas designated as a slum or blighted within a community’s downtown or main street. The community application deadline for the Downtown Revitalization Program is April 3, 2025. CAPCOG can support applicants by providing guidance on project eligibility and offering technical expertise throughout the funding process.
