Call it a clean sweep for bicyclists.
The City of McAllen Public Works Department is joining a convoy of street sweepers across Hidalgo County for the first ever Operation Clean Sweep. The project aims to keep designated bike lanes clear of debris.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the cities of McAllen, Edinburg, Pharr, San Juan and Alamo will spearhead the major street sweeping effort. The cleanup will begin Thursday February 19 at 8:30 a.m. following a kick-off at the offices of The Monitor newspaper (Jackson and Nolana). The estimated 20-mile stretch is expected to be completed in one day.
McAllen Public Works Director Carlos A. Sanchez says the groups involved are keeping in line with the Run Ride and Share campaign that was initiated in May of 2014.
“Through this effort we hope to increase the safety of the use of road shoulders and bike lanes, to encourage our community to enjoy the facilities and bring awareness to motorists and cyclists and runners to share the road responsibly,” Sanchez said.
Motorists and pedestrians should expect delays and are urged to observe traffic control signs.
“We are pleased to partner with the City of McAllen in this program because it aligns with our mission of providing safe and reliable transportation solutions for the people of South Texas,” said Toribio Garza Jr., P.E., district engineer for TxDOT's Pharr District.
Who: TxDOT, City of McAllen, City of Edinburg, City of Pharr, City of San Juan and City of Alamo
What: Remove debris from bike lanes and road shoulders to improve ride-ability and increase safety
Where: Jackson Rd from FM 495 north to SH 107 FM
495 (Pecan Ave) from 2nd Street to Val Verde Road
SH 107 from Sugar Rd to Ware Rd.
Highway 107 from UTPA to Ware Road
When: Thursday, February 19 8:30 a.m.
