The city of Alamo is giving new life to some of its most forgotten spots, and local artists are at the heart of the makeover.

Standpipes are easy to overlook, but one local artist saw potential and turned one into something Alamo hopes will inspire a city-wide wave of color.

It's the first step in a citywide effort to turn ordinary utility structures into public art.

For Edinburg artist Jesse Garcia, who spent three days bringing a standpipe to life, the project was more than just a mural. It was a chance to showcase what makes Alamo, Alamo.

"I decided to go with animals since the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge is close by; I chose the Green Jay and the Longwing Zebra," Garcia said.

Garcia says the Rio Grande Valley's culture deserves to be seen, and murals help tell that story.

"I think

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