$83 million Anzalduas International Bridge expansion project key to enhanced trade with Mexican state through land port crossing
McAllen – [July 31, 2024] – The Anzalduas International Bridge welcomed Mexico’s International Delegation and Governor of San Luis Potosí, Ricardo Gallardo Cardona yesterday to discuss the progress of its $83 million commercial cargo expansion.
During the event, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos shared his excitement about the project and the prospects of the Anzalduas International Bridge attracting diverse industries and increasing jobs across the Rio Grande Valley.
“There were a lot of moving parts to make this possible and I couldn’t be prouder of our progress,” Mayor Villalobos said. “I’m honored by all that we have accomplished, and I think this truly opens up the Rio Grande Valley as a leader in international trade.”
With the Anzalduas International Bridge Project nearing completion, Governor Cardona extended his full support and a shared vision of strong international trade between Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley.
“We are proud to share that we have made great progress in security issues, placing San Luis Potosí as one of the five safest sates in the country, moving from 17th place to 5th place. This achievement not only represents an increase in the tranquility and well-being of our citizens, but also has a significant impact on transportation logistics for companies in San Luis Potosí,” said Governor Cardona.
“In addition, we are taking firm steps forward with the construction of a new airport in San Luis Potosí, which will facilitate the arrival of tourists from South Texas to enjoy our natural beauty. The sister city relationships with McAllen and Mission is fundamental and the importance of this bridge liese in the diversification of our manufacturing products coming through South Texas, opening new opportunities and markets for our industries,” he concluded.
“Nos enorgullece compartirles que hemos logrado gran avance en temas de seguridad, situando a San Luis Potosí como uno de los cinco estados más seguros del país, avanzando del lugar 17 al 5. Este logro no solo representa un incremento en la tranquilidad y bienestar de nuestros ciudadanos, sino que también tiene un impacto significativo en la logística de transportes para las compañías en San Luis Potosí,” dijo Governador Cardona.
“Además, damos paso firme adelante con la construcción de un nuevo aeropuerto en San Luis Potosí, que facilitará la llegada de turistas del sur de Texas para disfrutar de nuestras bellezas naturales. El hermanamiento con McAllen y Mission es fundamental y la importancia de este puente radica en la diversificación de nuestros productos de manufactura hacia el sur de Texas, abriendo nuevas oportunidades y mercados para nuestras industrias.”
Juan Olaguibel, Superintendent of Bridges for the City of McAllen, echoed these sentiments and explained that his focus for the bridge expansion has always been centered on building strong and lasting relationships with international trade partners, as well as furthering economic development for the area.
“I am so grateful for the partnerships that McAllen has with Mission, Hidalgo, and now San Luis Potosí. Trade and transportation are vital industries for both the Rio Grande Valley and San Luis Potosí,” said Olaguibel. “Today marked a huge step towards economic integration and shared trust over some of our most important industries that provide thousands of jobs to our deserving community.”
Owned and operated by the City of McAllen, in partnership with the cities of Hidalgo, Mission, and Granjeno, the Anzalduas Bridge Expansion Project is being developed to become a full-service cargo port of entry, giving commercial trucks another way to travel between the two countries with minimal delays. The expansion includes state-of-the-art commercial inspection facilities with new and improved inspection booths, docks, equipment, roadways, parking, and sidewalks.
Back in 2022, the City of McAllen secured funding for the project with the goal of expanding trade operations, improving inspection efficiency, and increasing connectivity for north- and south-bound travelers. Mayor Villalobos, who also serves as chairman for the Anzalduas International Bridge Advisory Board, stressed that this anticipated milestone will continue to strengthen trade relations with Mexico and play a vital role in McAllen’s and the entire Rio Grande Valley’s economies.
The project will be completed in 2025, and in its first few years of operation, the bridge will process close to 2,000 commercial trucks a day in north-south trade.
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