Fountains and fans being added
Texas Border Business –
McALLEN – With triple digit temperatures on the horizon, relief is coming for pedestrians at the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge. Bridge administrators have hired a company to begin the installation of drinking fountains for all northbound pedestrians to use when entering the United States.
“The McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge is one of the busiest pedestrian bridges in Texas and we appreciate their patronage and are addressing customer friendly amenities in our improvement plans,” said McAllen Mayor Jim Darling. “There will be more to look forward to.”
The double water fountains will be under the pedestrian canopy as visitors walk towards the U.S. The fountains are intended to help pedestrians who are in line to come into the country from dehydrating due to the rising temperatures.
“We are excited about the opportunity to add these features for our international guests. This is just another way to better serve our residents and visitors,” said Hidalgo Mayor Martin Cepeda. “We have a substantial amount of foot traffic, and their well-being is a top concern for us.”
Six new commercial grade fans will also be mounted under the pedestrian canopy in order to make waiting in lines a bit more comfortable.
“I applaud Mayor and Bridge Board Chairman Jim Darling, Mayor Martin Cepeda and other city leaders for providing me the direction and confidence to hold high standards of safety for our pedestrians in these high summer temperatures,” said Superintendent of Bridges Rigo Villarreal.
The project is being financed by the bridge’s capital improvement fund which was established in June 2011 and now earmarks 50 cents of every vehicle toll collected, for bridge improvements. Installation of the new features begins on May 23.
