On Wednesday, local, state, and federal partners gathered to celebrate the expansion of the Veterans International Bridge. The project aims to improve the efficiency of the process by adding extra lanes for drivers crossing into the United States. Customs and Border Protection will have eight additional secondary inspection spaces and a new head house as part of the expansion.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. expressed excitement about the project, stating that it will increase capability and capacity at the ports of entry. This will be accompanied by additional CBP agents to help with the efficiency of the process. To reduce wait times, drivers can expect to see four additional lanes driving from Matamoros into Brownsville.
The project is expected to have a positive impact on cross-border trade and boost the local economy. Trevino expressed hope that the enhancement resulting from the project will benefit businesses, truckers, transportation companies, logistic companies and other industries in our area.
Texas Senator John Cornyn played a key role in securing funding for the expansion through legislation in Washington D.C.. He emphasized the importance of cross-border trade relationship with Mexico, highlighting how this lane expansion will strengthen this bond and lead to greater economic prosperity for both countries.
The $18 million project will be funded through a combination of local and federal resources. The additional lanes are scheduled to open next month, providing improved infrastructure for drivers crossing
