AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., is proud to announce that the Texas General Land Office's (GLO) Coastal Management Program (CMP) recently purchased five 50-foot mobility mats and eight beach wheelchairs for placement at Cameron County area beaches and access points. This purchase, made possible through surplus CMP funding, will help ensure all Texans have access to the high tide line in areas where vehicles are prohibited.
"As a Texan who has lived on and loved the Texas coast throughout my life, ensuring our beautiful beaches are accessible for everyone to enjoy is a mission that is close to my heart," said Commissioner Buckingham. "The GLO's Coastal Management Program was proud to be able to use surplus funding to purchase these mobility mats and beach wheelchairs for a community in need of these accessibility items. I look forward to continuing to work with Cameron County officials to support the needs of this essential coastal community."
A mobility mat at a beach in Cameron County
Cameron County officials shared how these mobility tools will support their community:
“Ensuring that our beaches are accessible to everyone is a priority for Cameron County. The donation of beach Mobi-chairs and Mobi-Mats significantly enhances our ability to welcome residents and visitors of all abilities. We are deeply grateful to Texas General Land Office Commissioner Buckingham and the CMP Program for this contribution, which will help create a more inclusive and enjoyable coastline for our beach visitors,” stated Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr.
A mobility mat at a beach in Cameron County
“This generous donation of Mobi-Chairs and Mobi-Mats embodies the true spirit of inclusivity and partnership. By improving accessibility along our beaches, we’re taking an important step toward ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, can safely and comfortably enjoy our shoreline. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Texas General Land Office for supporting a more accessible future,” stated Cameron County Commissioner Pct. 1, Sofia Benavides.
Texans enjoy the beach in Cameron County, aided by a beach wheelchair
“On behalf of the Cameron County Parks & Recreation Department, we extend our sincere thanks to the Texas General Land Office CMP Program for providing Mobi-Chairs and Mobi-Mats for our ADA County Beach Access areas. This donation reflects the shared belief that every member of our community deserves equal access to recreational spaces. These additions will make a meaningful difference for individuals and families who face mobility challenges,” stated Joe E. Vega, Parks Director.
Click the button below to learn more about Texas beach accessibility:
Texas Beach Accessibility Guide
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas' first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.