Congressman Ruben Hinojosa Announces Million Dollar Plus Grant Award for the City of MCallen Bentesen Road Hike and Bike Trail

Press Release

Today-Congressman Rubén Hinojosa (D-TX-15) announced the City of McAllen was awarded a grant of $1,020,266 for the Bentsen Road Hike and Bike Trail by the Texas Transportation Commission.

"This grant will give a boost to the successful project already started by the City of McAllen", said U.S. Rep. Hinojosa. "It will greatly improve the quality of living for McAllen residents as well as contribute to a healthier lifestyle by providing more areas for physical fitness opportunities."

The continuous trail will be 1.6 miles and will enhance the City's 17 miles of existing trails that will be used by pedestrians and cyclists.

McAllen Mayor Jim Darling stated, "As the trail competed with other eligible projects from around the state, I commend the support provided for the Bentsen Road Hike and Bike Trail by U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa, State Rep. Bobby Guerra, State Rep. Sergio Munoz Jr. and State Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, who were all critical to the grant award."

Competitively reviewed and selected under the Texas Department of Transportation's 2012 Transportation Enhancement Program, the grant will provide for the construction of a multi-use pedestrian and bicycle trail with amenities and landscaping, connecting residential neighborhoods, parks, schools and other points of interest along Bentsen Road from Pecan Boulevard (FM 495) to Nolana Avenue. The federally-funded award will be leveraged with a local match of $255,066 for a total project cost of $1,275,331.

Public support has driven different phases of Bentsen Road enhancements. A public meeting was held on April 24, 2012, at the McAllen Public Library with over 50 people in the target area in attendance to discuss future plans for the corridor, including the proposed trail. Phase 1, a $8.5 million irrigation project, is complete, as is Phase 2, a $3.5 million drainage project. Phase 3, a $5 million paving project is in process. The final phase of the corridor's enhancement is the hike and bike trail. The Bentsen Road Hike and Bike Trail is included in the City's Bike Plan, adopted Sept. 10, 2012.

Project amenities will include bicycle racks, drinking fountains for people and pets, way-finding signage, benches, shade shelters, trees and area lighting for increased safety and visibility.

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