CALEXICO–The federal budget that was signed into law February 15 includes $191 million in appropriations for the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) to proceed with construction for continued improvements and expansion of existing infrastructure at the Calexico West Land Port of Entry (LPOE).
A total of $275.9 million was proposed in Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) President’s budget request to Congress before the lesser amount was appropriated. Construction of a new pedestrian inspection building remains part of the planned replacement of the port and will be completed once the balance of the project budget is appropriated in a future fiscal year.
“This key infrastructure investment reflects the strategic importance of having a modern facility able to meet the needs of the federal inspection agencies,” said GSA’s Pacific Rim Public Buildings Service Regional Commissioner Dan Brown. “The funding allows GSA to continue expansion and replacement of the Calexico West Land Port of Entry. This project, delivered in collaboration with U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will improve border security and efficiency for the traveling public.”
“Ports of entry are economic engines not just for our local communities but for the entire country,” said Pete Flores, CBP’s director of field operations in San Diego. “CBP is proud to partner with GSA to build a modern, secure facility that welcomes travelers to the U.S. and citizens home.”
The $191 million allocation includes Phase 2 construction of six additional northbound non-commercial vehicle inspection lanes with an associated secondary inspection facility, five southbound non-commercial vehicle inspection lanes with canopies and inspection booths, a new administration building, and an employee parking structure.