Alpine Mayor Catherine Eaves discussed the city's strategic approach to growth during an interview on The Building Texas Show, emphasizing a balance between development and preservation in West Texas's Big Bend region. The mayor, a retired 25-year science educator from Lone Star College who moved to Alpine full-time in 2021, was elected in 2022 after a door-to-door campaign aimed at increasing civic engagement. She has since created "City Government 101" classes at City Hall to help residents understand local governance.
Educational institutions form a cornerstone of Alpine's identity and economic strategy. Sul Ross State University drives local innovation through programs in nursing, law enforcement, and wildlife management, while also housing the Museum of the Big Bend with its world-class map collection. Mayor Eaves highlighted how educational partnerships, including remote learning collaborations with Lone Star College, are building a skilled workforce and supporting rural healthcare needs in the region.
A pressing challenge facing the community is the upcoming expiration of the city's contract for emergency medical 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, referencing monthly leadership meetings with county, school, and university officials that foster regional cooperation.
Economic development continues with new restaurants, retail stores, and nurseries opening downtown following the city's recent approval as a Historic Downtown District. Alpine is actively rebranding as the "Dark Sky Capital of Texas" to attract astrotourism, capitalizing on the region's exceptional stargazing conditions. Historic landmarks like Kokernot Field baseball stadium and transportation partnerships with Amtrak further enhance the city's appeal as a destination. The full interview providing deeper insights into Alpine's vision is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8Qdo652Ek0.
Beyond governance, Mayor Eaves hosts "Small Town Big Stories," a podcast preserving Alpine's oral history through nearly 100 interviews with multi-generational residents. The show archives pioneer stories for future generations and is available on major podcast platforms. Visitors can explore Alpine's cultural offerings through resources like https://buildingtexasshow.com, which features conversations with community leaders shaping Texas towns. The city's commitment to balanced growth—protecting its historic character while addressing modern needs—demonstrates a model for rural communities navigating development pressures without sacrificing identity.
