McAllen shows day in the life of a bridge toll booth worker

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Have you ever wondered what it's like to work at the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge? The City of McAllen took us into the world of a toll booth worker who has been working at the bridge for over 40 years.

Here is what we learned.

Rigoberto Rios, a toll booth operator at the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge, and says he takes great pride in communicating with travelers at the bridge.

Throughout his years of service, Rios says he has met many people from different walks of life from Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and many other places.

He said he likes chatting with travelers about what life is like in their country or city.

Rios noted that when he first started his job as a young man in 1982 he remembers there being plenty of traffic. However, when the bridge in Pharr was built, he said he noticed a decongestion in traffic.

Additionally, he recalls there being a small tent where people used to cross. He noted that the infrastructure has changed so much since he first started working there.

He said he feels too young to retire and says that while he has plenty to tend to at home, he feels fulfilled at work.

To watch the full interview with Rios, click here.