Winter Texans retiring from Rio Grande Valley?

RIO GRANDE VALLEY – For decades, the Rio Grande Valley has been a winter refuge, but the heydays for retired short-term residents, dubbed Winter Texans, are gone, according to a recent report from the University of Texas-Pan American’s Business and Tourism Research Center.

Last year, the Valley lost 33,000 Winter Texans, leaving 100,000 behind, many of whom have migrated south for several years, said the bi-annual report that surveyed 88 parks and nearly 1,400 people.

Winter Texans spent $710 million last season during the winter months as recreational vehicle parks swelled and bluegrass festivals rolled through the area. That accounts for a more than 11 percent drop since 2009-2010, when they spent more than $800 million.

As Winter Texans grow older, 62 percent of respondents in the report noted that health was a factor in them not returning while concerned family members were the second reason.

Perceptions of drug violence ranked third — a departure from the last survey taken in 2012, when it ranked atop the list.

Mobile home park manager Gail McDaniel said reservations are strong and most Winter Texans are not worried about border violence.