DeWitt County Precinct 1 Commissioner Ryan Varela outlined improvements to the Guadalupe River Valley Paddling Trail access sites at the Commissioners Court meeting April 27.
Varela told the court a ribbon cutting ceremony would be held at the entrance to the paddling trail to herald the enhancements on April 30. The improvements were made in cooperation with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority, which sponsored the new map and kiosk.
Varela said improvements were made to the road leading to the paddling trail on FM 766, and the boat ramp on Hwy. 72 was repaired, an open area was regraded for grass growth and work is underway on a small parking lot and a road around the open area. On FM 236, the boat ramp was rebuilt, litter was cleaned up and a new paddling trail map and kiosk were installed.
Varela said the site was operational before the improvements, but it was not eye appealing.
“We are hoping with the improvement we can get more individuals to participate in more outdoor recreation,” Varela said. “The three site are a main entrance and exit for the Great Texas Water Safari race that happened in South Texas.”
Cuero Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Angie Cuellar praised Varela and his crew for the work that was done. The chamber sponsored the ribbon cutting ceremony.
“What a difference these improvements will make for our community and visitors alike,” Cuellar said. “These improvements are helping turn our waterways into a true outdoor experience worth exploring.”
Cuero said that paddling is more than just recreation —I t’s a vital part of nature tourism n Cuero.
“By keeping these areas clean and accessible, we’re inviting more people to unplug, explore, and experience the beauty of our community,” Cuellar said. “Here’s to more adventures on the water and continued efforts to keep Cuero a place where the outdoors shines.”
Joining in the celebration were DeWitt County Precinct 4 Commissioner Brian Carson, Mayor Emil Garza, Anna Daniels of GBRA, and Shelly Plante of TPW. Refreshments were served by La Flor de Guanajuato, courtesy of GBRA and the Cuero Development Corp. for joining us this morning and supporting this meaningful project. It truly takes a team!
