San Angelo Live Cam

The heart of the city's historic area





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A Great Place for Business to Live

Downtown San Angelo, Inc. believes that a vibrant Downtown is essential to improve the Quality of Life in San Angelo by revitalizing the vitality of Downtown. Creating an Economic Development program through the context of Historic Preservation utilizing a four point approach: Design, Organization, Promotion and Economic Restructuring will develop that climate for growth.

Strengthening the existing Economic base while diversifying. Economic Restructuring includes assisting business stabilization and expansion opportunities, recruiting new business, converting space and sharpening the competitiveness of Downtown. By strengthening Downtown's economy, communities are able to support ongoing use of Historic commercial and office buildings while preserving the Historical character of the community.

A Dream Come True

In April 2001, the YMCA launched a $4.8 million capital campaign to build a dream - a new San Angelo Family YMCA. Gary Cox, President of Texas Bank, and Don Griffis, partner in Jackson Walker law firm, are chairing a volunteer force of more than 150 volunteers. The new facility will be built adjacent to the current YMCA facility and on the Concho River front at 305 South Randolph.

Individuals or couples who contribute more than $1,000 to the YMCA capital campaign will be recognized on the Builders' wall of the new facility. Many areas of the new YMCA are available as "naming opportunities" for different levels of gifts.

The beginning of 2002 marks the launch of the community gifts division of the capital campaign. Donations from the Pace Setting, Advance, Major, and Foundation gift divisions place the campaign at 74% of the $4.8 million goal. Raymond Meza, owner of Twin Mountain Fence Company, is chairing the community gifts division. He has recruited five section leaders who will, in turn, recruit volunteers to communicate the mission of the YMCA and the capital campaign, raising the final dollars needed to reach the campaign goal.

A City on the Concho River

Climate played an important role in the early development of San Angelo. When tuberculosis became widespread in the early 20th Century, patients from all across the United States were sent to a treatment center near San Angelo for the benefits of the dry air (San Angelo's elevation is 1,902 feet). San Angelo's three lakes and rivers flowing through the city do add some morning humidity. The annual morning average is 79%, but that drops to an afternoon average of a comfortable 44%. Temperatures can be in the 100's during the summer months, but low humidity in the 10% to 20% range keeps that "heat index" down. If your interest is golf and other outdoor activities, you will enjoy the winters. Snow and sleet are not common, but once or twice each winter there will be some snowfall or sleet. It disappears quickly, however. From an employer's view, San Angelo has no lost work time because of the weather.

Verizon not only serves San Angelo with telephone service, but is also one of the largest employers in the city. Over 1,500 Verizon employees work in the West Texas/New Mexico Division and the 3 national department headquarters located here. Verizon has a totally digital switching system with fiber optic service available to most San Angelo business locations. ISDN service is also available in San Angelo. San Angelo communications services provide that latest technology for voice, data, and video transmission. San Angelo's communications service was a major factor in such locations as a USAA Computer Disaster Recovery Center, a State of Texas Computer Disaster Recovery Center, and SITEL Corporation's presence with over 1,300 employees - their largest telecommunications center in their world-wide operations.

Long distance carriers include Verizon, MCI, Sprint, Action Telcom, Communications, etc., McLeod, StarTel, Tel-Pro Communications Systems, AT&T, Central Texas Communications providing LMDS Service, and U.S. Long Distance. Four companies provide cellular service to San Angelo customers: West Central Wireless, Cellular One, Western Communications, and Cellular Solutions. Companies provide direct computer Internet service.

As in most communities, the services sector has had the most dramatic growth.

San Angelo offers a wide array of entertainment! Afterward, family and friends may join together at one of the local theaters. Or top your dining experience by sampling our diversity of musical talent. Whether searching for live Country Western, Rock-N-Roll, Jazz, Blues, Tejano, Disco, Hip Hop or Retro, a night on the town promises a wide variety of fun.

Lake Nasworthy, Twin Buttes and San Angelo State Park's O.C. Fisher Reservoir are located in the southwest and northwest areas of San Angelo. They offer all types of water recreation and excellent fishing opportunities. The Concho River, named for the mussels that produce the unique Concho Pearl, has always been a treasure to our city. The River Beautification Project features a paved river walk, beautiful gardens, a river plaza, 14 fountains, a jogging/walking trail, golf course and a heritage trail connecting the river to Fort Concho and El Paseo de Santa Angela - all in downtown San Angelo.

San Angelo sits smack in the middle of an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. There are two lakes inside the city limits and four more within an hour's driving time, plus some of the best hunting opportunities to be found in the state for white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, Rio Grande turkey, quail, dove, seasonal waterfowl and even many species of non-native exotic wildlife. San Angelo is a hub for an exciting array of outdoor sports.

Quality of Life

Mild temperatures, wide open spaces, abundant water, tree-lined rivers, and many other factors provide the area with a national reputation for its quality of life. In a 1993 survey of the nation's 300 largest cities, San Angelo was ranked as the 38th best place to live in America by Money Magazine. The survey was based on health, crime, the economy, education, housing, transportation, weather, leisure activities and the arts. This recognition was the second by the publication since it had first recognized the city a decade ago as "the best kept secret in Texas."

San Angelo is located in what is known as the Concho Valley of west central Texas between the Texas Hill Country to the southeast and the Rolling Plains to the northwest. Within the Concho Valley, the city itself is located between fertile farmland on the east and primarily fenced rangeland to the west.

Because of readily available land, San Angelo was never required to build tall buildings. Most of the larger buildings are located downtown close to the historic area of Concho Avenue. Government, medical and mostly professional offices are located near the center of the city while outlying suburbs provide a variety of shopping centers and retail businesses.

Motorists can travel from one side of the city to the other within 20 minutes or less via the Houston Harte Expressway, Bryant Boulevard, or Loop 306.

The Water Utilities is owned by the City of San Angelo. The primary portion of the city's water is provided by three local lakes: O.C. Fisher, Twin Buttes, and Lake Nasworthy. In addition, water is received from Lake Spence 35 miles north and the city has contracted with the Colorado River Municipal Water District for water from the newly completed O.H. Ivie Reservoir located to the east. The city also holds water rights from the McCulloch County underground aquifer to the east.

The city also owns a landfill northeast of town. Collection twice a week is provided by TrashAway Service, a private contractor.

The electrical requirements of San Angelo are met by West Texas Utilities Company, which serves over 52,000 square miles in West Texas. WTU's integrated system serves San Angelo with ample capacity and excellent continuity to customers. Concho Valley Electric Cooperative serves some of the surrounding land outside the city limits.

Natural gas for San Angelo and the area is supplied by Lone Star Gas Company, the southwest's largest gas utility.

Mathis Field, a commercial and private airport, serves part of the city's transportational needs. The airport is about five miles from town and lies on the south side.

The city is located on four major highways which provide links to Interstate 20 to the north and Interstate 10 to the south. U.S. 87 is an important link between northwest Texas, San Angelo, Austin, and San Antonio. It is also under consideration for an extension of Interstate 27 to connect Interstates 10 and 20. U.S. Highway 67 links San Angelo directly to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Loop 306 is a four-lane roadway that circles the city. Except for one area under construction, the loop has controlled access and no traffic lights.

San Angelo has rail access to U.S. destinations as well as Mexico. Ten motor freight companies serve the cities trucking needs, providing one-day and overnight service within a 500-mile radius.

Surprising San Angelo!

The leisure traveler in search of adventure, relaxation or a combination of both, need look no farther than an oasis hidden in central West Texas, "Surprising San Angelo."

Located at the juncture of the High Plains and the Texas Hill Country, this modern city of rivers and lakes is also home to a rich western heritage, maintained for the enjoyment of all. As a part of this heritage, community hospitality abounds as citizens welcome visitors from near and far.

Visitors are surprised and delighted with the wide range of attractions and activities available in San Angelo. Many enjoy a jaunt along the River Walk, in the numerous parks nearby or at the Nature Center. A visit to the new El Paseo de Santa Angela, a pathway connecting the Historic City Center to the River and the fort grounds, is always in order. Others tour Fort Concho, stroll through one of the many museums, or star gaze at the ASU Planetarium. Antique lovers and history buffs lose themselves while exploring the shops along historic Concho Avenue or viewing the famous painted rocks on the Concho River just east of the city.

Art lovers in particular like to browse in the various shops of artisans at the Chicken Farm Art Center or leisurely inspect exhibits at the Museum of Fine Arts or the Children's Art Museum. Visitors and natives alike love touring the historic Cactus Hotel. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the area golf courses and tennis courts. One can boat, fish, or water ski on one of three local lakes. Each day's stay is enhanced with visits to many fine restaurants which cater to a wide variety of tastes.

Agriculture

San Angelo's economy (particularly retail trade) is heavily dependent upon the strengths of two agricultural sectors--livestock and row crops. San Angelo is located between two very different agricultural landscapes--a rich irrigated river valley and grazing lands. Cotton and cattle lead the income receipts for this area, followed closely by sheep, goats, sorghum, hay, and wool. Our topography and climate account for 20% of the nation's sheep population and 90% of the Angora Goat population being located within 100 miles of San Angelo.

As a center for agriculture, San Angelo enjoys the benefits of the processing of agricultural products. Evans Meat Company, San Angelo Packing Company, Rancher's Lamb of Texas, and Tom Green Processing employ over 450 people in the meat processing industry. Manufacturers and retailers of animal feed and supplements, agricultural equipment, and saddles and tack support this important primary industry. San Angelo has a strong identity as an agricultural marketplace as well. Producers Livestock Auction is the nation's leader in sheep sales. It is also one of the top five auctions for cattle.

San Angelo History

San Angelo is a city located in West Central Texas, United States, and is the county seat of Tom Green County. The city was established in 1867, and its history can be traced back to the early 1860s when the area was first settled by Anglo-American traders and ranchers. The city was named after the nearby San Angelo Creek, which was named by the Spanish because the area reminded them of the Garden of Eden.

In the early years of its existence, San Angelo was a frontier town, and it played a vital role in the development of the West Texas region. It was an important stop for cattle drives, and many cowboys and cattle ranchers passed through the city on their way to markets in the East.

In 1873, the first railroad arrived in San Angelo, which helped to further boost the city's growth and development. The city became an important transportation hub for the region and played a significant role in the expansion of the rail network in West Texas.

During the late 1800s and early 1900s, San Angelo became a center for agriculture, oil, and gas production. The city's cotton industry was particularly important, and the discovery of oil and gas in the area brought new wealth and prosperity to the city.

San Angelo has a rich cultural history, and the city has played an important role in the development of the arts in West Texas. The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, which opened in 1999, showcases local and regional art and is a popular destination for visitors to the city. Today, San Angelo is a thriving city with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, oil and gas, manufacturing, and healthcare. It is also home to Angelo State University, which is part of the Texas Tech University System and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

San Angelo Top Tourist Attractions

San Angelo has a variety of top tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • San Angelo State Park - This park is located on the shores of O.C. Fisher Reservoir and offers a range of recreational activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Fort Concho National Historic Landmark - This historic fort was established in 1867 to protect the frontier from hostile Native American tribes. Today, it is a popular attraction that offers guided tours, living history demonstrations, and special events.
  • The Concho River Walk - This scenic riverwalk is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the natural beauty of the Concho River. It is also a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
  • San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts - This museum showcases a variety of local and regional art, including contemporary art, western art, and ceramics.
  • Chicken Farm Art Center - This unique art center is home to a community of artists who create and display their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and photography.
  • Santa Fe East Park - This park is a great place to take the family for a picnic or to play on the playground. It also has a splash pad for kids to cool off on hot summer days.
  • San Angelo Nature Center - This center offers a variety of exhibits that showcase the wildlife and natural beauty of the area. Visitors can see live animals, including snakes, birds, and turtles, and learn about the local ecology.
  • Angelo Civic Theatre - This community theater offers a variety of live performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows.
  • San Angelo Symphony Orchestra - This orchestra performs a variety of classical and contemporary music throughout the year, and is a popular destination for music lovers.
  • San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo - This annual event is one of the largest rodeos in Texas and features a variety of events, including bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. It is held every February and attracts visitors from all over the region.

San Angelo Climate

San Angelo has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city is located in an area that is prone to droughts, and precipitation is generally low throughout the year. Here are some key features of San Angelo's climate:

  • Temperatures: The average high temperature in San Angelo in the summer months (June-August) is around 95-97°F (35-36°C), with lows in the 70s°F (around 23°C). In the winter months (December-February), the average high temperature is around 60-65°F (16-18°C), with lows in the 30s°F (around 1-3°C).
  • Rainfall: San Angelo receives an average of 21 inches (around 53 cm) of rainfall per year, which is relatively low compared to other areas of Texas. Most of the rainfall occurs in the spring and fall months, with the driest months being July and August.
  • Humidity: San Angelo has relatively low humidity throughout the year, which can make the hot summer months feel more tolerable. The average relative humidity in the summer months is around 40-45%, with slightly higher humidity in the winter months.
  • Wind: San Angelo is known for its strong winds, which can sometimes reach speeds of 30-40 mph (around 48-64 km/h). These winds are most common in the spring and can cause dust storms and low visibility on the roads.

Overall, San Angelo's climate is characterized by hot summers, mild winters, low precipitation, and relatively low humidity. Visitors to the city should be prepared for hot temperatures in the summer and occasional dust storms or high winds in the spring.

San Angelo Geography

San Angelo is located in West Central Texas, United States, and is the county seat of Tom Green County. The city is situated on the banks of the Concho River and is surrounded by rolling hills and mesas. Here are some key features of San Angelo's geography:

  • Rivers and Lakes: The Concho River is the main waterway in San Angelo and runs through the city from north to south. The city is also home to several lakes, including Lake Nasworthy and O.C. Fisher Reservoir, which are popular destinations for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
  • Landforms: San Angelo is located in an area of West Texas that is characterized by rolling hills and mesas. The city is surrounded by mesas and plateaus, including the Twin Mountains and the San Angelo Plateau. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, with elevations ranging from around 1,800 feet (around 550 meters) to 2,400 feet (around 730 meters) above sea level.
  • Climate: San Angelo has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city is located in an area that is prone to droughts, and precipitation is generally low throughout the year.
  • Vegetation: San Angelo is home to a variety of plant species, including mesquite, oak, and juniper trees. The area is also known for its prickly pear cactus and other desert vegetation.
  • Wildlife: San Angelo is home to a variety of wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various species of birds. The Concho River is also home to several species of fish, including bass, catfish, and perch.

Overall, San Angelo's geography is characterized by its location on the banks of the Concho River, rolling hills and mesas, and its semi-arid climate. The area is known for its natural beauty and diverse plant and animal life, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.

San Angelo Culture

San Angelo has a rich and diverse culture, shaped by its history, geography, and community. Here are some key features of San Angelo's culture:

  • Western Heritage: San Angelo has a strong connection to its western heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, art, and events. The city is home to the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, which was established in the late 1800s to protect frontier settlers from Native American attacks. The fort has been restored and now serves as a museum and event space, showcasing the history and culture of the American West.
  • Art and Music: San Angelo has a thriving arts scene, with several galleries, museums, and performing arts venues. The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts is a popular destination, showcasing a variety of contemporary and historical art. The city is also home to the San Angelo Symphony, which performs a range of classical and contemporary music throughout the year.
  • Multiculturalism: San Angelo is a multicultural city, with a diverse population that includes Hispanic, African American, and Native American communities. The city celebrates its diversity through events such as the Cinco de Mayo Celebration and the San Angelo Multicultural Festival, which showcase the food, music, and traditions of different cultures.
  • Outdoor Recreation: San Angelo is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. The San Angelo State Park is a popular destination, offering hiking trails, fishing, and camping opportunities.
  • Food: San Angelo is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, which combines traditional Mexican flavors with Texas-style cooking. The city is home to several popular Mexican restaurants, as well as a range of other cuisines, including Italian, barbecue, and steakhouse fare.

Overall, San Angelo's culture is characterized by its western heritage, arts and music scene, multiculturalism, outdoor recreation, and diverse food culture. The city's community is proud of its history and traditions, and continues to celebrate and showcase its unique culture to visitors and residents alike.