What downtown Edinburg visitors should know as old Hidalgo County Courthouse demolition continues

Visitors, court users, and downtown businesses are being urged to plan ahead and expect heavier traffic and pedestrian activity as Hidalgo County continues demolition work at the old county courthouse and the City of Edinburg advances construction of a new parking garage nearby.

Hidalgo County officials said activity at the former courthouse site has increased in recent weeks as demolition and cleanup work continues. Demolition work began in November and is scheduled to run through September 2026, weather permitting, according to a county news release issued Tuesday. 

Crews are working Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The demolition follows the construction of the county’s new courthouse, which left the older structure vacant and slated for removal as part of broader plans to reconfigure the courthouse square.

“Hidalgo County appreciates the community’s patience as progress continues,” county officials said in the news release. “The work on this site marks the next step in revitalizing the heart of downtown Edinburg.”

Before demolition began, the county completed an environmental survey of the building to identify materials that must be removed by licensed professionals. 

Hidalgo County is working with Noble Texas Builders, the project’s contractor, to ensure cleanup and abatement work is completed safely and responsibly.

As demolition progresses, nearby residents, visitors, and business owners may hear hammering and see increased equipment movement and debris hauling. Contractors are using dust control measures and air monitoring throughout the project to maintain safe conditions around the courthouse square, county officials said.

The impact is being compounded by a second major project in the same area. 

The City of Edinburg is moving forward with the construction of a new $6.2 million downtown parking garage just north of the courthouse site.

With both projects underway, county officials said traffic and pedestrian movement around the courthouse square will be heavier than usual. Drivers, visitors, and business owners are encouraged to remain alert and aware of changing conditions while traveling through the area.

Hidalgo County officials said multiple safety measures are in place during demolition, including daily safety audits conducted by the contractor and the use of wind screens and daily water application to manage dust. They also limited work after 6 p.m. unless essential activities require extended hours.

Once demolition is complete, county officials said the courthouse square will include additional parking for jurors and visitors, along with a redesigned meander walkway intended to function as a welcoming public space.