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Posted on: June 4, 2023

Shine Bright like a Diamond!

Odessa Spire

The Odessa Spire was cleaned recently by Giant Rent & Wash. Some compare and call the “Odessa Spire,” the West Texas Eiffel Tower.“When Odessa Arts first approached us with the request to clean the spire, we were deeply h...

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Posted on: June 4, 2023

Change in Water Disinfection

Rip Halbaedier

We’ve told you, residents may notice a bleach or chlorine like smell in the water, but it is nothing to be concerned about. The change in disinfections will be implemented as a proactive maintenance measure in our distribution system.
We got more...
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Posted on: June 4, 2023

Short in Size, Not Talent!

Andre Roman

It’s not everyday you hear of a Pro Basketball Player who’s only 5 foot 7 inches tall.  However, that’s the case for Pecos Native Andre Roman who also spent quite a bit of time growing up in Odessa.  
The 27-...
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Posted on: June 2, 2023

Serving Up Comfort Food

Scott Rowell

Copper Kettle Cafe was recently named the #1 Southern restaurant in Odessa, according to Yelp.  Today, we got some insight from Scott Rowell, a server there.  He says some of the most popular items on the menu:  Chicken Fried St...

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Posted on: June 2, 2023

Firecracker Fandango Car Show

Firecracker Fandango Car Show

There is still time to register for this year's Firecracker Fandango Car Show hosted by Downtown Odessa. If you are ready to show off your car, truck, or motorcycle join us on Sat., July 1st. 
There will be live music performances, food t...
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Posted on: June 2, 2023

Working for YOU!

Waterline Replacement

On Monday, June 6th the alleys of E 52nd St and Kingston Ave. will be under work. Roughly 2,000 feet of 6’’ Cast Iron water main, service taps, and a fire hydrant in the alleys and streets will be replaced. 
This line was built...
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Posted on: June 2, 2023

Sacred Markers of Achievement

Lovae Chavez

Ranielle Chavez was not only thrilled to see her daughter graduate from Odessa High School, but she was also excited to see Lovae Chavez wear her Traditional Tribal Regalia under her robe. She says regalia is usually handed down from elders and is worn fo...

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Posted on: June 2, 2023

CANCELLED Tonight due to weather!

Movie in the Park Schedule

We are excited about bringing you “Movies in the Park.” However, it won’t be happening this evening because of Mother Nature. Stay tuned! We’ll continue to share with you info on all of our amazing City of ...

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Posted on: June 1, 2023

Carrying the Torch of Creativity

Ish Mata

He comes from a long line of creative geniuses.  Ish Mata, who goes by Brooklyn, owns a balloon business here in Odessa. He started it about 10 years ago.
“My talent is a gift. It’s been lent to me by God.”
HIs mother and grandmother are in heaven,...
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Posted on: June 1, 2023

Being a Surrogate

Martina Marquez

This takes helping a friend to the next level.  Martina Marquez served as a Surrogate to a good friend who couldn’t get pregnant.
She told her, “That could be your angel!”
Martina knew all too well what it was like not...
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Posted on: May 31, 2023

Honoring Fallen Officers

OPD attends memorial service

It’s an emotional event!  Every year, the Big Bend Area Law Enforcement Officers Association holds a Memorial Service to pay tribute to West Texas Officers killed in the line of duty. 

Chief Michael Gerke and officers from the O...
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Posted on: May 31, 2023

Change in Water Disinfection

It will take place from Thursday, June 1st through June 30, 2023. 

Residents may notice a bleach or chlorine like smell in the water, but it is nothing to be concerned about. 

During this interim period of approximately 30 days, the City w...

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Posted on: May 30, 2023

Update - Brittany Sawyer Investigation

Case Closed

As with most investigations, these cases are complex.  Chief Michael Gerke issued this statement tonight.

“The detective assigned to the Brittany Sawyer Missing Person case has been in communication with Ms. Sawyer. She advised that she ...

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Posted on: May 30, 2023

June Events

June Events

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Posted on: May 30, 2023

New Sports Complex

Sports Complex in Odessa

A big step forward has been taken to bring a new Sports Complex to our city. Odessa City Leaders say they are now in the second phase of the project. Larry Bell and his family have graciously offered to donate up to 100 acres of land within the Parks Bell...

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Posted on: May 26, 2023

OPENING TOMORROW - Pools & Spraygrounds

Sherwood pool

Splish Splash! Put on those swimsuits and get ready for some family-friendly fun at the City of Odessa’s pools and spraygrounds. They’re opening this Memorial Day weekend, May 27th.
    •    ...
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Posted on: May 26, 2023

Odessa Veteran with Humble Beginnings

Jesse Rodriguez

This week is “National Public Works Week,” a time meant to recognize the importance of our public infrastructure and those people that provide these vital services every day. Among them, is Jesse Rodriguez who’s been with the City of Odessa for 18 years n...
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Posted on: May 29, 2023

Recruiting our Next Generation

Marshall Williams

Corporal Marshall Williams has been with the Odessa Police Department for more than 12 years. He is currently assigned to the Training Division as a Recruiter & Background Investigator. Part of his job involves reaches out to local high schools and he...
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Posted on: May 25, 2023

Collegiate Coach teaching Basketball Camp

Meagan Henson

A former BIG 12 women's basketball player will be coaching our Summer Basketball Camps.  It's being hosted by the City of Odessa's Parks & Rec Department.
She was an Assistant Coach at Angelo State, Upper Iowa Univer...
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Posted on: May 24, 2023

What You Need to Know

Odessa City Council Meeting

Odessa City Council Meeting (May 23rd) - What You Need to Know

HOLDING UNINSURED DRIVERS RESPONSIBLE

Odessa Mayor Javier Joven and Odessa City Council Members took action in hopes of holding uninsured drivers even more responsible. They unanimously approved...

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Posted on: May 19, 2023

Connecting with our Students

Gilbert Vasquez

Remember Social Studies presentations when you were young? They were always so intriguing and interesting.
Today, Council Member Gilbert Vasquez was invited to Harmony Academy Middle School.
“What a rewarding experience to visit with some 25 stude...
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Posted on: May 16, 2023

Recycling Center Changes

Recycling Center Changes

The City of Odessa TRULY CARES about recycling.  However, the current model doesn’t make sense financially.  We haven’t done away with it.  We just can’t continue to fund it the way it’s s...

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Posted on: May 15, 2023

National Police Week

2023 National Police Week

A reminder that National Police Week started yesterday, Sunday, May 14th. During this time, we honor the memory of U.S. law enforcement who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving their communities.You can also join in on paying tribute. ...

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Posted on: May 15, 2023

OPD Deputy Chief graduates

Matt Davidson

Congratulations to Odessa Police Department's Deputy Chief Matt Davidson! He earned a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from UTPB. 
Deputy Chief Matt Davidson has been with OPD for two decades and oversees our Fi...
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Posted on: May 15, 2023

Special Proclamation

Council Members Thompson and Vasquez

Council Members Steve Thompson and Gilbert Vasquez stopped by ORMC last week and gave a special proclamation for "National Nurses Week!" It was National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week!Thank you nurses and hospitals for everything that yo...

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Posted on: May 10, 2023

Mexican Mother's Day

Mexican Mother's Day 2023

For those of Mexican, Salvadoran and Guatemalan descent, Mother's Day often comes a bit earlier than for those in the United States. 
“Dia de la Madres” always lands on May 10th. It is a tradition passed down from gene...
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Posted on: May 10, 2023

Honoring Heroes

Gilbert Vasquez and Veterans

The Odessa City Council unanimously voted tonight to support naming a portion of a highway in honor of two distinguished West Texas veterans. Mac Wilson and Rex Young made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. State Representative Brooks Landgraf filed legis...
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Posted on: April 26, 2023

Happy Administrative Professionals Day!

Administrative Professionals Day

Sonia Murillo, Executive Assistant to the City Manager for 28 years.
Agapito Bernal, Interim City Manager: “Sonia demonstrates dedication and unwavering service to the organization. Sonia is part of the heartbeat of Odessa. Go Sonia!!!”...
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Posted on: April 26, 2023

Fighting the Opioid Crisis in Odessa

Fighting Drugs

A special check presentation took place at the Odessa City Council meeting Tuesday night, money that will be used to help fight the war on drugs in our city.

City Council Members Denise Swanner and Mark Matta spearheaded this effort.  It&rsquo...
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Posted on: April 25, 2023

Walk with A Doc

Dr. Jeanette Cala

It’s exactly how it sounds. You get to walk with a doctor, get advice and get exercise in the process.Dr. Jeanette Cala is with Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Odessa. She gave us some insight into the program.  She says t...

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Posted on: April 24, 2023

Veteran & Helping kids around the world

Luis Valerio

By day, City of Odessa employee Luis Valerio is an HVAC Tech. By night, he’s working to help youngsters. He and his wife founded an orphanage in Africa. His pastor had traveled there. Then, he was contacted to help. Not only is Luis stro...

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Posted on: April 24, 2023

Odessa Fire Rescue names New Fire Chief

Chief Jason Cotton

Jason Cotton’s second home growing up was OFR.  His father, Hyram Cotton, worked there for 30 years and retired as a Senior Captain.  His brother, James Cotton, also worked at the department for 30 years and retired as a Captai...
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Posted on: April 20, 2023

Odessa Fire Rescue - Firefighter/EMT

Peter Vaniman

“I hope the public sees the professionalism, work ethic and dedication that we have for serving them.”

Odessa Fire Rescue - Peter Vaniman (Firefighter/EMT)

Peter has always had a passion for serving his community and this career allows h...

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Posted on: April 20, 2023

Stronger Together

Odessa and Midland Leaders

Odessa and Midland City Leaders, along with UTPB Officials, met today to discuss a proposed Multipurpose Corridor and Trail. It would be 19 miles between Midland and Odessa.
It will start off as a bicyclist/pedestrian corridor and expand from there. Here&a...
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Posted on: April 20, 2023

Keeping You Informed

Train Crash

NEW: Texas DPS releases new information regarding the crash video we showed you yesterday. As we mentioned, Odessa Fire Rescue helped with the incident which took place near West Murphy and Business 20.  We didn't release the video until...

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Posted on: April 19, 2023

Putting Others First

Battalion Chief Quentin Dobmeier

What is the most rewarding thing for you about your job?  "Seeing other members I work with succeed and promote to new ranks within the organization."
Many who work for Odessa Fire Rescue consider that their second family and Battalion C...
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Posted on: April 18, 2023

Working for YOU!

Danny Lopez

A big smile and friendly hello!  That’s what you always get from City of Odessa Employee Danny Lopez when you arrive at the Drop-Off Center.  It’s located at 814 W. 42nd street.   

Danny mans the gate and is a great pers...

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Posted on: April 16, 2023

Working for YOU!

Vivian Dominguez

The guy with his thumb up, Clay Carlin who's taking advantage of the City of Odessa's Tree Limb Disposal location.  He's been an Odessa resident for 60 years.
The man in the yellow vest, City of Odessa Employee Vivian Dominguez who's helping him.
B...
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Posted on: April 16, 2023

Children Exploring Sports

B.E.S.T. Sports

The City of Odessa's Park & Rec Department held its first B.E.S.T. event on Saturday.  It continues for six weeks.

It stands for "Beginners Edge Sports Training.  It gives youngsters a chance to explore all kinds of spor...

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Posted on: April 14, 2023

More than six decades in Odessa!

April 15, 1960 - Tomorrow marks 63 years since Mark Knox opened his flower shop in our city.  It's located at 1209 E 8th Street. He first opened his flower store on Dixie and stayed there for three years. Then, he moved to this location....

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Posted on: April 14, 2023

Brains behind the beauty!

Patty Springer

These are some of the people behind that beauty.
They’re Patty Springer and Melanie Paris. Both are Horticulturists. Randall Anderson started there and is now a Superintendent. He’s worked for the city for 15 years. 
You’ll be surprised at how many...
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Posted on: April 13, 2023

Special Donation

Gilbert Vasquez

A local nonprofit called “West Texas Gifts of Hope,” that helps cancer patients, is making a $6,000 donation to Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Odessa.

The money will be used to help cancer patients in rural areas.  It was...

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Posted on: April 12, 2023

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Odessa Dispatchers

Mayor Javier Joven officially "thanked" some of our City of Odessa Dispatchers with a proclamation at last night's Odessa City Council Meeting.  Michele Raca, the Public Safety Communications Director, was also on hand.

Being an...

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Posted on: April 12, 2023

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week - Sonya Cortez

Sonya Cortez

For 14 years, Sonya has worked for the City of Odessa.  Currently, she wears numerous hats.  She's a Quality Assurance Specialist, Custodian of Records and Background Investigator.  It's part of our Public Safety Communications ...
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Posted on: April 12, 2023

Odessa Fire Rescue - Megan Potts

Megan Potts

What is the most rewarding thing for you about your job?  Megan:  Being in a position that the community trusts on their worst days. 
She's a firefighter/EMT who's been with OFR for a little over a year. &nb...
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Posted on: April 12, 2023

Working Together

Odessa New Tech High School Students

A BIG THANK YOU to Valentina Rivera who's a teacher at New Tech. She along with her three students: Carly Huyhn, Ma Fatima Quimbo and Lyzandra Casarez gave our Keep Odessa Beautiful office a facelift.They volunteered about 50 hours of their time ...

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Posted on: April 11, 2023

Working for YOU

City of Odessa Code Enforcement

Today, the City of Odessa's Code Enforcement was hard at work picking up litter at their adopted spot. It's part of our citywide "Don’t Mess with Texas Spring Cleanup." They removed 540 pounds of litter to make Odessa...

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Posted on: April 11, 2023

Taco Tuesday - Twister Tacos

Twister Tacos

There are 21 different kinds of tacos to choose from at Twister Tacos.  It’s run by the Loya family.  In one pic, mom/daughter who both share the same name Paty Loya.
Mom moved here from Chihuahua, Mexico.  Daughter was...
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Posted on: April 11, 2023

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Tiffany Baker

“Everyday we strive to be the voice in the dark that sends you the help you need to bring you back into the light.”
For nine years, Tiffany has been handling emergency calls. She says what inspired her to take the job was the need to he...
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Posted on: April 11, 2023

Fun in the Sun - Pickleball

City of Odessa Pickleball

Sixteen people showed up for the fun last night. It was a great way for them to meet new people and get exercise at the same time.We have our next pickle ball clinic April 24th. There are a few spots still available.April 24th registration link - ...

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Posted on: April 12, 2023

Apply to be Odessa's City Manager

Odessa City Manager Search

The City of Odessa, Texas is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to join our team as the City Manager. This is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on our community and help shape the future of our vibrant city.

As the City Manager, yo...

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Posted on: April 11, 2023

New report released in OFR Hazing Incident

OFR Hazing Incident

VIDEOS: OFR Interim Fire Chief Reacts to Hazing Incident Report

New Report on Hazing Incident

City leaders are releasing new information regarding an Odessa Fire Rescue investigation.  Several OFR cadets claim that beginning on August 16, 2022, the...

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Posted on: April 8, 2023

Easter Spring Fling a huge success!

Easter Spring Fling

Hundreds showed up to take part in the "Easter Spring Fling" at Sherwood Park Saturday Morning.  It was hosted by the City of Odessa's Park and Rec Department.  People of all ages participated and had a wonderful time.

We have a...

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Posted on: April 8, 2023

New Tavern Honors Mayor’s Father

Mayor Javier Joven

“My dad is my role model,” said Odessa Mayor Javier Joven.
Patrick Clay’s Icon Tavern honored some local athletes and coaches with pictures up in the new sports bar.  Among them, a picture of Joe Joven (Mayor Joven’s father) and Ruben Munoz Jr. &a...
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Posted on: April 5, 2023

Record Breaking Event

Easter Egg Hunt

Wow! What an incredible turnout this year for Downtown Odessa’s Egg Hunt. We doubled the number of eggs this year and bought 40,000 thinking that would be more than enough. We never expected to have the turnout we did. Already,...

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Posted on: April 5, 2023

City of Odessa Employee - Deborah Bermea

Deborah Bermea

Helping all departments and people, that's what Deborah says is her favorite part of being a Building Tech for the City of Odessa.
She was born and raised here and says she loves seeing how downtown has transformed.  She also says many of...
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Posted on: April 4, 2023

Yoly's Famous Salsa - Honoring Family

Yoly's Salsa

Imagine losing two family members within two weeks.  That’s exactly what happened to Yoly Vasquez in 2021.  She lost her husband Johnny Vasquez to Covid and two weeks later, she lost her son Johnny Vasquez Jr. to cancer. You co...
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Posted on: April 4, 2023

Downtown Odessa's Easter Egg Hunt

Easter Egg Hunt

Downtown Odessa, Inc. Easter Egg Hunt has started and already there are numerous people on the bunny trail including the Enriquez family.

 

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Posted on: March 29, 2023

A Servant’s Heart - Reverend Dr. Dawn Weaks

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A Servant’s Heart - Reverend Dr. Dawn Weaks  

 

Reverend Dr. Dawn Weaks, along with her husband, Reverend Dr. Joe Weaks, serve as pastors of Connection Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) here in Odessa. 

&...

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Posted on: March 28, 2023

First-Generation College Graduate – Ashley Flores

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First-Generation College Graduate – Ashley Flores

“The people in Odessa are what makes our community STRONGER TOGETHER! You can more than always find someone you may not know and feel that warm welcome.”
Promoting Odessa is her job and that comes easy for A...
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Posted on: March 24, 2023

Odessa Chamber of Commerce – Renee Henderson-Earls

Renee Henderson Earls

Odessa Chamber of Commerce – Renee Henderson-EarlsRenee Earls is the current President/CEO of the Odessa Chamber of Commerce. She is an Odessa native and a graduate of Permian High School. She went on to attend Odessa College and then Texas Tech...

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Posted on: March 17, 2023

City Employee Spotlight - Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson

City of Odessa Employee – Scott Anderson

Scott Anderson is currently the Director of Building Services. But his work history goes way beyond that. Scott work in the Parks & Recreation department for 31 years and he was the Deputy Director of ...

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Posted on: March 16, 2023

The Permian Basin Hamburger Company

The Permian Basin Hamburger Company

July 6, 1976 - that’s when the popular Odessa restaurant opened. The owner Dwaine Cox is pictured here with his daughter Meghan Cox.
Their secret? Don’t fix what’s not broken. Not much has changed at the restaurant. 
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Posted on: February 15, 2023

Take Survey for Feasibility Study for Sports Complex

Odessa Parks Recreation- Survey QR Code

The City of Odessa Parks and Recreation Department and the Quality-of-Life Committee will conduct a Feasibility Study for a Sports Complex with the assistance of Synergy Sports Global.

We need your input! Please follow the survey link:

https://www.surveymon...

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Posted on: April 22, 2022

Faudree Road Improvements Construction Updates

Faudree street sign

Faudree Rd. is scheduled to have a series of improvements for the coming year. Keep informed about work being done and how it will improve the roadway.

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Posted on: April 7, 2022

Road Construction Map

Traffic-Cones

Use this GIS construction map to see where road construction is taking place in the city.

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Posted on: November 22, 2016

Alert Center

Aerial View

Notify Me allows you to subscribe to an unlimited number of email lists. Receive email or text message updates regarding the information you have requested. Check out Notify Me today!

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