Environmental advocates are asking the U.S. International Boundary and Water Commission to consider alternatives to a $1.6 million dredging project.

On April 9, the IBWC announced a $1.6 million project to clear out mud and excess vegetation along a 6.3-milelong stretch from downtown Harlingen to Cemetery Road.

The project is aimed at helping move floodwaters in the Arroyo Colorado.

“Harlingen is blessed with having a wildlife corridor cutting right in the middle of it,” Jim chapman with the Friends of the Wildlife Corridor said. “In some cases, it's helpful for residents because they have a several mile hike and bike trail.”

The project is expected to take two years to complete once it starts.