Beach Reach: Volunteers Offer Safe Rides to South Padre Island Beachgoers
As spring break vacation continues, a tradition dating back to the 1980s is making a significant impact on South Padre Island. Beach Reach, a group of dedicated volunteers, is offering free transportation to beachgoers, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all.
On Monday alone, Beach Reach provided over 1,500 rides to those visiting the island. “Anybody on the island that needs a ride is welcome to give our hotline a call, and we’ll gladly send them a van, or they can flag one down during the day,” said Nathan Mahan, a coordinator for the group. The service operates during most daylight hours and runs a hotline from 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. for those in need of a lift.
The initiative is not just about providing a convenient mode of transportation; it’s also about promoting responsible behavior. Many island visitors prefer to stay the night rather than risk driving under the influence. “A lot of things can happen, and I don’t want to lose things that I have. It’s better to get a hotel if you’re going to be out drinking. Enjoy your life. There is no reason to drive,” shared one spring breaker.
The importance of programs like Beach Reach is underscored by sobering statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation. Last year, more than 870 crashes were reported due to DUI, resulting in 30 deaths and 107 serious injuries. The message is clear: don’t become part of the statistics.
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Beach Reach: Volunteers Offer Safe Rides to South Padre Island Beachgoers
As spring break vacation continues, a tradition dating back to the 1980s is making a significant impact on South Padre Island. Beach Reach, a group of dedicated volunteers, is offering free transportation to beachgoers, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all.
On Monday alone, Beach Reach provided over 1,500 rides to those visiting the island. “Anybody on the island that needs a ride is welcome to give our hotline a call, and we’ll gladly send them a van, or they can flag one down during the day,” said Nathan Mahan, a coordinator for the group. The service operates during most daylight hours and runs a hotline from 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. for those in need of a lift.
The initiative is not just about providing a convenient mode of transportation; it’s also about promoting responsible behavior. Many island visitors prefer to stay the night rather than risk driving under the influence. “A lot of things can happen, and I don’t want to lose things that I have. It’s better to get a hotel if you’re going to be out drinking. Enjoy your life. There is no reason to drive,” shared one spring breaker.
The importance of programs like Beach Reach is underscored by sobering statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation. Last year, more than 870 crashes were reported due to DUI, resulting in 30 deaths and 107 serious injuries. The message is clear: don’t become part of the statistics.
