A recent survey conducted among business owners in downtown Laredo has revealed concerning levels of satisfaction regarding various aspects of the area, including security, parking, and overall perception. The survey, which aimed to gather insights on the downtown experience, yielded an average satisfaction rating of just 3.9 out of 10, with security receiving an even lower average score of 3.3. Parking was rated at a dismal 2.5, highlighting significant concerns among respondents.

The survey also assessed the importance of various services, with cleaning services ranked as the most critical, followed by security and marketing. Notably, the average satisfaction with current marketing efforts was only 2.9, indicating a pressing need for improvement in this area.

When asked about their perceptions of downtown Laredo, 44% of respondents reported a negative view, while 24% described their perception as very negative. Only 9.7% expressed a positive outlook. The primary reasons for visiting downtown included shopping (64%), events (31%), and entertainment (24%), yet many cited a lack of dining options and parking as barriers to more frequent visits.

Safety concerns were also prevalent, with 28% of respondents feeling somewhat unsafe in the area. The survey indicated that 93% of visitors travel by car, underscoring the importance of accessible parking and signage.

To enhance the downtown experience, respondents suggested improvements such as cleaner streets, better lighting, and more public seating areas. The survey results reflect a critical need for local authorities and business owners to address these issues to revitalize downtown Laredo and attract more visitors. As the area anticipates significant transformations in the coming years, stakeholders are urged to prioritize these concerns to foster a more inviting and secure environment for both residents and tourists.