Nikki Rowe Warrior Nation has a reason to celebrate. The Dove Water Tower, originally constructed back in 1986, now has a fresh new look an emblazoned Rowe mascot. The McAllen Public Utility (MPU) along with some help from the McAllen School District dedicated the restored tower on May 16.
“McAllen residents are accustomed to excellence in services and leadership,” said MPU General Manager Mark Vega, P.E. “Seven water towers stand as a reminder of our city’s leaders, such as our city commissioners, school district and public utility board members who, though being few, bear the responsibility of continuing to be that good example for the whole region and state.”
The towering landmark, which stands near the intersection of Dove and 23rd Street is designed to boost local water pressure and stands at 125 feet above ground. Like all things, the 30 year old water tower required periodic maintenance in order to continue to extend its service life.
“McAllen PUB thanks the ‘Warrior Nation’, the McAllen school board and our rate payers for coming out to the dedication ceremony,” said board chairman Ernest Williams. “The new Rowe water tower represents our commitment to maintaining and improving the integrity of McAllen’s water system.”
Gulf States Protective Coating, Inc., out of La Porte, Texas, was hired last year to perform an interior and exterior facelift on the tower. The work included the obvious new exterior green and yellow paint job and logo work, and also included installation of a new safety guard rail on top of the bowl as well as the replacement of the interior bowl ladders.
The remodeling also included the installation of a new safety climb system in addition to a complete new interior paint application. With efforts like this, MPU hopes to keep this tower in operation to continue to serve City of McAllen residents for generations to come.
The Dove Water Tower facelift now completes the restoration and rehabilitation of all three McAllen high school water towers. 