U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), Cameron County, and the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority (CCRMA) have announced the completion of an infrastructure improvement project at the Veterans International Bridge Land Port of Entry in Brownsville, Texas.
The project, conducted under CBP’s Donations Acceptance Program, saw Cameron County and CCRMA invest over $17 million. The improvements include four new vehicle primary lanes, eight expanded secondary inspection bay spaces, a new head house, and the removal of the outdated head house. A cash donation was also made for necessary equipment and technology.
"The completion of this project is a testament to what public-private partnerships can achieve through vision, collaboration, and determination," said Diane J. Sabatino from CBP's Office of Field Operations.
In 2016, Cameron County and CCRMA proposed these improvements to address inefficiencies by reducing wait times and increasing processing capacity. The completed project has reportedly exceeded expectations.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. stated that the large-scale improvements at the bridge are complete and should be fully operational soon. "Because of the tremendous collaboration between GSA, CBP, and our CCRMA...vehicle commute time and border trade will be facilitated," he added.
Under U.S.C. § 301a and other related laws, CBP and GSA can accept donations for port-of-entry construction activities as part of their Resource Optimization Strategy.
CBP is America's largest law enforcement organization focused on border management. They facilitate lawful travel and trade while enhancing national security through various strategies.
For more information about CBP’s programs or partnerships like this one with Cameron County, visit www.cbp.gov/DAP.
