Expanding bicycle infrastructure to promote physical activity in Hidalgo County, Texas

The role of the built environment as both an asset and a barrier in promoting physical activity is well documented. However, literature on the role of communities in catalyzing policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change to address gaps in the built environment is scant. We describe a community-driven PSE intervention, resulting in expanded bicycle infrastructure and physical activity opportunities in a South Texas border community. Funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Working on Wellness project engaged community-based coalitions in efforts to increase opportunities for physical activity in Hidalgo County, Texas. Coalitions collaborated with the city of Weslaco to install bicycle lanes and with the Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization to establish a countywide Bicycle Friendly Business program. Community-driven PSE interventions can be effective public health strategies in creating long-term sustainable solutions that address environmental determinants of obesity.