Veterans International Bridge Sees Major Infrastructure Upgrade
The Veterans International Bridge Land Port of Entry (Los Tomates LPOE) in Brownsville, Texas, has undergone a significant infrastructure improvement, thanks to a collaborative effort between U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), Cameron County, and the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority (CCRMA).
$17 Million Investment Yields Significant Improvements
Through CBP’s Donations Acceptance Program, Cameron County and CCRMA contributed over $17 million. This investment resulted in the addition of four new privately owned vehicle primary lanes, eight expanded secondary inspection bay spaces, a new state-of-the-art head house, and the demolition of the outdated previous structure. Funding also covered necessary equipment and technology.
Successful Public-Private Partnership
Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, praised the project as a testament to successful public-private partnerships, stating it has not only improved infrastructure but also laid the foundation for future growth.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. highlighted the project's completion as a major milestone, emphasizing the improved border crossing times and economic benefits for the Brownsville and Matamoros region. He noted the project should be fully operational within a couple of months.
Legal Framework and Future Partnerships
The project aligns with 6 U.S.C. § 301a and the Homeland Security Act of 2002, which authorize CBP and GSA to accept donations for port-of-entry improvements. Public-private partnerships are a cornerstone of CBP’s Resource Optimization Strategy, enabling the expansion of services and infrastructure at ports of entry.
For more information on CBP's Donations Acceptance Program, visit www.cbp.gov/DAP.