Alpine Mayor Catherine Eaves detailed the city's approach to growth during an interview on The Building Texas Show, emphasizing a strategy that balances historic preservation, educational excellence, and proactive governance in West Texas's Big Bend region. Eaves, a retired 25-year science educator and professor with Lone Star College who moved to Alpine full-time in 2021 and was elected mayor in 2022, stated the city is focused on thoughtful development. "We're not just growing, we're growing thoughtfully. From infrastructure to housing, we're making decisions that support both current residents and future generations," Eaves said.
Education serves as a cornerstone of Alpine's identity, with Sul Ross State University driving local innovation through its nursing program, law enforcement academy, and wildlife management degrees. The university also houses the Museum of the Big Bend, home to a world-class map collection. Eaves emphasized how educational partnerships, including remote learning with Lone Star College, are building a skilled workforce and supporting rural healthcare needs in the region.
A pressing issue discussed was the upcoming expiration of the city's contract for emergency services. Eaves outlined collaborative solutions being explored with Brewster County, including the potential formation of an Emergency Services District to ensure reliable emergency care for Alpine's growing retiree population. "We're leaning on each other," she said, highlighting monthly leadership huddles with county, school, and university officials to address shared challenges.
Economically, Alpine is experiencing a business boom with new restaurants, retail stores, and nurseries opening downtown. The city was recently approved as a Historic Downtown District and is rebranding as the "Dark Sky Capital of Texas" to attract astrotourism. Landmarks like Kokernot Field, a historic baseball stadium, and partnerships with Amtrak are enhancing Alpine's appeal as a destination. The full interview offering deeper insights into Alpine's challenges and vision is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8Qdo652Ek0.
Mayor Eaves also hosts "Small Town Big Stories," a podcast preserving Alpine's oral history with nearly 100 interviews featuring multi-generational residents, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. For visitors interested in exploring Alpine's murals, hikes, dark sky opportunities, and local businesses like Lowe's Grocery Store, more information can be found at https://visitalpinetx.com. The Building Texas Show, hosted by Justin McKenzie, delivers conversations with leaders shaping Texas communities and can be explored further at https://buildingtexasshow.com.
