Harlingen, TX (KRGV) — Harlingen got a 4.57 score out of five on its Blue Zones readiness assessment, the highest score among participating Rio Grande Valley cities, according to the city.

Blue Zones focus on making healthier lifestyle choices more accessible through changes in the community. The assessment looks at everyday choices like how people get to work, where they eat, and whether they have a place nearby to walk.

Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda said she wants to build on existing trail projects to give people more chances to walk or bike to everyday destinations. Sepulveda also wants a commercial kitchen in the planned recreation center where residents could learn to make healthier and more affordable meals.

"We can all be ambassadors for these initiatives, but at the end of the day, it has to be a personal choice. What we're trying to do is make that choice easier, and make it cost effective," Sepulveda said.

Sepulveda also wants restaurants to offer healthier menu options. She said the city is also looking at wellness opportunities for city employees.

The city has not announced a final Blue Zones implementation plan, but Sepulveda said resident feedback will help shape that plan.

While a formal implementation roadmap has not yet been finalized, Sepulveda said public input will directly guide the rollout. Detailed project plans, timelines, and rollout dates are expected to be unveiled in January.

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