Keep McAllen Beautiful reveals latest mural with TxDOT

 A splendid 408-foot mural has emerged as the latest addition to McAllen's cultural landscape, courtesy of Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). This captivating artwork adorns an irrigation wall at the intersection of Pecan Boulevard and 2nd Street, not only enhancing the city's aesthetic but also delivering a powerful message in support of TxDOT's "Don't Mess with Texas" campaign.

The collaboration between McAllen and TxDOT underscores their shared commitment to combat litter and raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a pristine environment. The "Don't Mess with Texas" campaign is TxDOT's flagship initiative for litter prevention and educational outreach.

The journey to create this mesmerizing mural commenced in early 2023 when KMB embarked on an extensive quest to discover a local mural artist who could bring their vision to life. The winning submission, "Don't Mess with Texas, 'cause we're watching!" by Oneida Treviño, captured the hearts of both the Public Art Committee and TxDOT representatives.

Oneida Treviño, an artist, muralist, and art educator with a remarkable 16-year art education background, specializes in creating striking portraits of individuals and animals native to the Rio Grande Valley. Her previous contributions, such as the beautifully adorned irrigation pipes across McAllen, have left an indelible mark on the city's artistic landscape.

Funding for this remarkable mural was made possible in part by TxDOT's "Don't Mess with Texas" campaign, which also granted exclusive permission for the use of their trademarked "Don't Mess with Texas" logo. Hidalgo County Irrigation District #2 offered its approval for the project, with the unwavering support of the City of McAllen.

This awe-inspiring mural not only celebrates local artistic talent but also reaffirms the community's dedication to preserving McAllen's beauty and contributing to the fight against litter. As residents and visitors gaze upon this magnificent masterpiece, they are reminded of the collective responsibility to keep McAllen and Texas pristine for generations to come.