The City of Brownsville Sidewalk and Trails Master Plan is an update of the City of Brownsville’s 2013 Bicycle and Trail Master Plan. The updated plan will guide the existing and future development of sidewalks, trails, and bicycle infrastructure.

The 2021 plan includes a focused analysis and planning strategy for sidewalks in Brownsville; the first plan in Brownsville’s history to do so. As sidewalks are one of the most common and potentially the most impactful type of alternative infrastructure used in a typical city environment, it is important that a strategic plan for effective sidewalk development and maintenance is formulated and adopted.  

Sidewalks also aid in the accessibility of trail and bicycle infrastructure, often times acting as the main link between trail entrances and residential areas.  Making it easier for residents to access trails and sidewalks, can increase the use of the trail system and other outdoor recreational facilities, potentially decreasing the amount of daily trips made by vehicles.

Current Implementation Projects

• The Fort Brown Connection (JPG) - Funded through a Transportation Enhancement grant from the Texas Department of Transportation, this project will connect the existing Historic Battlefield Trail to the Historic Fort Brown National Battlefield Site, through Brownsville's downtown.
• The Galveston Connection (PNG) - Funded through a Federal Land Access Program from the National Parks Service, this project will connect the existing Historic Battlefield Trail to the Resaca de la Palma National Battlefield Site.
• International Boulevard Area Bicycling Routes (JPG) - Funded through a Transportation Alternatives Program grant from the Brownsville Metropolitan Planning Organization, this project will implement recommendations for District 1 from the Bicycle and Trail Master Plan.
• District 3 Bicycling Routes (JPG) - Also funded through a Transportation Alternatives Program grant from the Brownsville Metropolitan Planning Organization, this project will implement recommendation for District 3 from the Bicycle and Trail Master Plan.
• Southmost Nature Trail (JPG) - Phase I is currently under construction and was funded through a Capital Project grant from the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation. Phases II - IV have been funded through Category 7 funds from the Brownsville Metropolitan Planning Organization. This project will create a 7-mile off-road trail that connects the deep Southmost area to the existing Historic Battlefield Trail. Due to the scale of the project, it will take several years to complete.
• Belden Trail Extension (PDF) - Funded through a Capital Project grant from the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation, this project will connect the existing Belden Trail to the bike lane on East 6th Street.
• Champion to Perkins Greenway (JPG) - This project is currently in the design phase, funded by the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation. Once the design phase is completed, the City will seek funding for construction.