Texas GLO Lower Rio Grande Valley Pedestrian Egress Study

Halff partnered with the Texas General Land Office (GLO) to evaluate pedestrian evacuation options in flood-prone communities throughout the Lower Rio Grande Valley. The study focused on Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy counties, where extreme rainfall and tidal flooding can limit the ability of residents to safely reach emergency shelters.

Halff assessed existing pedestrian egress routes, identified gaps in access to emergency shelters and incorporated community input and stakeholder coordination to understand local needs and evacuation challenges. Building on this analysis, the team developed site design concepts, trail improvements and implementation strategies to strengthen pedestrian evacuation networks and improve access to safety for residents in vulnerable areas.

The study provides local governments with actionable, cost-informed recommendations to improve pedestrian evacuation options, advance equitable disaster preparedness and strengthen community resilience across the region.