The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) marked the completion of two new consulates in Hermosillo and Nogales, Mexico, with ceremonies that highlighted ongoing investment in U.S.-Mexico relations.
The new consulate facilities aim to enhance cooperation between the United States and Mexico in areas such as trade, security, and tourism. These buildings are part of a broader OBO initiative to establish four new consulates in Hermosillo, Guadalajara, Merida, and Nogales, as well as a new embassy in Mexico City. Mission Mexico now includes 10 diplomatic facilities.
On September 24, 2024, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new U.S. Consulate Hermosillo took place. The event featured U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar, Acting Principal Officer Timothy Stater, Governor of Sonora Alfonso Durazo, Mayor of Hermosillo Antonio Astiazarán, Sinaloa Minister of Economy Javier Gaxiola Coppel, and OBO Former Managing Director for Construction and Security Management Tracy Thomas. The design was executed by Richärd Kennedy Architects and constructed by B.L. Harbert International with Page as Architect of Record. The $230 million project included a $40 million direct investment into the local economy.
A day later on September 25, 2024, the dedication ceremony for the new U.S. Consulate Nogales occurred. Participants included Ambassador Salazar; former OBO Managing Director Thomas; Consul General Michelle Ward; Sonora Governor Durazo; Mexican consuls from Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales, and Douglas; representatives from U.S. Congressional offices; and Mayors from both sides of the border. Ennead Architects designed the facility with Page as Architect of Record and BL Harbert International handled construction. The project had a total investment of $203 million with $70 million directly benefiting the local economy.
Both facilities emphasize sustainability through energy-efficient features such as solar panels and water-conserving landscaping practices in Hermosillo and shading elements and native landscaping in Nogales.
These additions to Mission Mexico reflect OBO’s commitment to providing effective facilities for U.S. diplomacy abroad while recognizing the historic relationship between Mexico and the United States.
For more information, contact OBOExternalAffairs@state.gov or visit obo.state.gov and oboportfolio.state.gov/missionmexico.
