The City of McAllen, in conjunction with the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization, is encouraging residents to take advantage of the many hike and bike trails in the community and to post the information on their social media, utilizing the hash tag #TrailMoments. The effort is part of the Rails to Trails Conservancy Trail Moment initiative, in hopes to capture moments of joy, solitude, exercise and self-care.

 

According to the website, www.RailstoTrails.org, “Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, millions of people have flocked to the outdoors. Spending time outside is one of the safest things we can do. As people seek out spaces near their homes to be active at a safe physical distance, trails have proven to be so important to so many—spaces to play, commute, walk, bike, run and explore.”

The McAllen Hike and Bike Trails feature the 2nd Street Hike and Bike Trail, the Bicentennial Blvd. Hike and Bike Trail and the Bentsen Hike and Bike Trail. All trails run north to south in McAllen and are seven miles; six miles; and 1.25 miles respectively.

The public service announcements highlight how getting out on the trails will help keep everyone healthy and safe. When out on the trails, participants are asked to snap a selfie and post the pic with a brief explanation of what their special trail moment means to them and don’t forget to add the hash tag.

Additionally, residents can fill out a brief survey on the trail, by clicking on a QR code that will be posted on signs along the trail or on the City of McAllen’s social media pages.

McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, an avid cycler, was really excited to participate in the PSA, especially as it shows off a great feature of McAllen and encourages everyone in the community that it is free and easy to do.

“It’s important that during this time of so much change and anxiety brought on by COVID-19, that we all do our best to stay healthy with the entire family. These PSAs showcase just how easy it is.”

Marlen Garza, director for the Traffic Operations division of the City of McAllen and represents McAllen as a member of the RGV MPO, highlighted how this initiative is being promoted in both Hidalgo and Cameron County.

“By working together, we are building trails that connect one community to another, and that in the long run is a great benefit of the RGV-wide partnership.”