Governor Greg Abbott has highlighted significant investments and projects aimed at enhancing rural communities across Texas in 2024. The initiatives focus on expanding access to healthcare, education, and financial support.

"Texas' greatest natural resource is our people," Governor Abbott stated. "Our great state is stronger when we invest in our urban, suburban, and rural communities."

One of the major projects includes a $34 million behavioral health campus in Uvalde, announced by Governor Abbott in the spring. This facility will provide care for mental health crises affecting both children and adults across 32 counties. The campus will feature crisis units for both adults and youth and aims to open by summer 2025.

Governor Abbott also announced seven new state hospital projects in June. These developments are set to expand psychiatric services across Texas with facilities planned for Amarillo, Lubbock, Terrell County, Wichita Falls, Harlingen, San Antonio, and El Paso.

The Governor emphasized the importance of these hospitals: "Texas continues working to increase access to critical behavioral health treatments for Texans in every corner of our state."

Earlier this year, over $6.3 million was allocated through Texas Talent Connection grants to support workforce training programs statewide. These grants aim to enhance job placement opportunities and skill development.

In August, $3.3 million was awarded to improve maternal care operations in rural hospitals not currently offering labor services. The funding assists hospitals with neonatal equipment purchases and training for emergency deliveries.

Further supporting veterans, more than $2.7 million was granted in September to organizations serving veterans and their families across 60 counties in the Panhandle region.

Governor Abbott reiterated his commitment: "These Fund for Veterans Assistance grants will provide critical resources to our veterans and their families."