Mercedes, TX (KRGV) — Mercedes is adding about 50 solar lights to the walking trail near the City Dome at the request of community members.

The goal is to provide a safer environment for people to exercise, according to Mercedes Parks Director Armando Villela. The lights will help people use the trail in the evenings and early mornings.

“We get those intense heats, and it is not ideal to be out here walking at five or six in the afternoon, so having lighting in the trail helps with the safety aspect and also being able to beat the heat,” Villela said. “Come out here in the evenings and early mornings, and the light will still be on.” 

The city plans to install the lights in December at a cost of $180,000.