Edinburg Breaks Ground on Phase II of Freddy Gonzalez Hike and Bike Trail

EDINBURG, Texas - City officials broke ground Feb. 5 on Phase II of the Freddy Gonzalez Hike and Bike Trail, a project designed to expand pedestrian access and strengthen regional trail connections.

Construction is underway on a 10-foot-wide trail running along Freddy Gonzalez Drive east to Raul Longoria Road. The route will connect South Park, located behind the Edinburg Parks and Recreation facility, to Robert and Janet Vackar Stadium and include signalized pedestrian crossings.

Mayor Omar Ochoa said the project reflects the city’s focus on active living. “Edinburg is an active city and we want to keep it that way. And this trail is going to promote that lifestyle moving forward for all the residents here in the city of Edinburg,” Ochoa said.

The 1.7-mile trail is being built along a future underground drainage canal and is funded in part through a Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside grant awarded in collaboration with the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization. The estimated construction cost is $1.1 million, including $862,745 from state and federal sources.

City Engineer Mardoqueo Hinojosa said work began Feb. 2. “They hit the ground running. You can see a whole bunch of forms already set along the trail and we expect for this to be done by late September,” Hinojosa said.

Officials said the trail will improve walkability to nearby parks and schools and link with existing trails, forming a continuous connection between Edinburg and McAllen.

Councilmember Daniel 'Dan' Diaz said the project is intended to serve the broader community. “As the trail stretches from South Park to Vackar Stadium and links our city to our neighbors, we pray it becomes a safe and welcoming place for families, students, and everyone who enjoys being outdoors,” Diaz said.

Roxanne Lerma, director of communication and media for the City of Edinburg, said the project will strengthen regional connectivity. “This new trail will serve as a vital link between Edinburg and our neighboring communities. And it's going to enhance outdoor accessibility for generations to come,” Lerma said.