TxDOT bicycle plan could bring more bikeways to Valley

PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation released a new plan to increase bicycle transportation across Texas highways in the Rio Grande Valley.

The bicycle plan will focus on providing Valley residents with a new, safe form of transportation available for all age groups.

TxDOT public information officer Ray Pedraza said the plan is open to the public so they could provide feedback before finalizing it later this year.

The increase in bicycle transportation is expected to bring economic benefits such as increased local retail sales, bicycle repair services and hospitality associated with tourism.

Tracy Roberts, owner of Bicycle World RGV in Harlingen, said he believes this project could greatly benefit the cycling community in the Valley.

"There are a lot of people right now that we see here on a daily basis that come in with bikes that they use for their daily commute. So having some more options for people that don’t have cars or want to live a healthier lifestyle would be a great thing," Roberts said.

The plan also raises a concern about cyclist safety. Roberts said the distraction of drivers on state highways poses a danger to those on bicycles.

“We do have a lot of distracted drivers right now with using cellphones or whatever other items might be going on so just more awareness of what’s going on when we’re driving our cars and even cyclists need to be more aware and be more responsible," Roberts said.

TxDOT is asking the public to leave comments on the plan to find priority areas for improvement and accessibility. Public comments can be made on the TxDOT website until August 9.