By Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC · Updated November 2, 2026 · Texas Eminent Domain Blog
Short answer: The City of McAllen, working with TxDOT’s Pharr District and the Rio Grande Valley MPO, is widening about 2 miles of Bentsen Road between Auburn Avenue (FM 676 / Mile 5) and Buddy Owens Boulevard (FM 1924 / Mile 3) to five lanes, with a roundabout at Mile 4. The right of way grows from an average of about 80 feet to 100 feet, and the project needs about 7.1 acres of right of way plus about 1 acre of drainage easements. Even a narrow strip taken from a front yard or parking lot can cause real damage to what is left.
Bentsen Road project: key facts
| Sponsor | City of McAllen, with TxDOT Pharr District and the RGVMPO |
| Limits | Auburn Ave (FM 676 / Mile 5) to Buddy Owens Blvd (FM 1924 / Mile 3) |
| Length | About 2 miles |
| Design | Five lanes, with a roundabout at Mile 4 |
| Right-of-way width | From about 80 feet (average) to 100 feet |
| Land needed | About 7.1 acres of right of way plus about 1 acre of drainage easements |
| Public meetings | October 9–10, 2024 |
| City contact | (956) 681-1151 |
Why a small strip can mean a big loss
On an urban corridor like Bentsen Road, the value is often in the remainder. A 10-foot strip can take away parking, move a driveway, push a sign out of compliance, bring the road closer to a home, or make a lot too small for its planned use. Texas law allows you to be paid for the land taken and for the loss in value to the property you keep.
What to check in the city’s offer
- Parking and setbacks. Will the business still meet city code after the taking?
- Driveways and access. Are curb cuts moved, closed or affected by the roundabout or medians?
- Signs, fences, landscaping and irrigation in the strip
- Drainage easements. Their location and what they prevent you from building
- Temporary construction easements and their effect on business during construction
How the offer process works
Cities follow the same Texas Property Code rules as TxDOT: a written initial offer with the Landowner’s Bill of Rights, a final offer at least 30 days later with the appraisal reports relied on, and at least 14 days to respond. If there is no agreement, the city can file condemnation, and three special commissioners decide compensation. See our Texas condemnation process guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of Bentsen Road is being widened?
About 2 miles from Auburn Avenue (FM 676, Mile 5) south to Buddy Owens Boulevard (FM 1924, Mile 3), in McAllen.
I only lose a few feet. Is it worth reviewing?
Often yes. The effect on parking, access and use of the rest of the property can be worth far more than the strip itself.
Can I talk to the city myself?
Yes. You can also have a lawyer review the offer first, which does not stop you from negotiating.
On Bentsen Road? Get a free review before you sign.
Our office is in McAllen. Call 956-782-2700. Se habla español.
Related: SH 68 in Hidalgo County · TxDOT takings
Sources
- City of McAllen, Bentsen Road project materials
- Texas Property Code, Chapter 21
General information, not legal advice, current as of the date above. Perez Law Firm, PLLC is not affiliated with the City of McAllen or TxDOT. Attorney advertising. Responsible attorney: Erick Holguin, Perez Law Firm, PLLC, McAllen, Texas.