Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – In a significant development for trade and commerce in the region, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the City of Pharr proudly announce the completion of critical infrastructure improvements at the Pharr Land Port of Entry (LPOE). This project, part of the Donations Acceptance Program (DAP), emphasizes the influence of local-federal partnerships in enhancing national infrastructure.
The collaborative effort saw the construction of two new inbound commercial lanes and two new exit commercial inspection booths, complete with state-of-the-art infrastructure and technology at the Pharr LPOE. These additions are set to significantly bolster the port’s capacity to inspect semi-trailer and truck vehicle imports, expediting the processing and boosting trade efficiency.
“We are excited to reach this milestone supporting CBP’s mission at the Pharr LPOE,” said GSA Regional Administrator Jason Shelton. “DAP projects require many years of hard work, and today, we are joyful and eager to continue delivering results that positively impact our stakeholders.”
The journey to today’s announcement began in 2015 when the City of Pharr proposed infrastructure improvements. After years of meticulous planning and design, the partnership was solidified with a Donation Acceptance Agreement in April 2019. This successful collaboration promises long-term benefits to local entities, communities, and consumers.
“The completion of the donated project construction at the Pharr LPOE highlights another effective partnership with federal and local entities to enhance CBP’s mission,” said Diane Sabatino, CBP Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations. The benefits of the additional infrastructure will improve processing through the port of entry, thus enriching the community’s economic competitiveness.”
Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., expressed pride in the city’s proactive role. “Pharr was eager to partner with CBP and GSA through the DAP to expedite the construction of these new bridge projects,” he said. “Flexible and innovative partnerships such as these help produce tangible solutions to address critical needs, and these and other major projects are mutually beneficial to improve trade and increase productivity and efficiency of processes at our international port of entry. We are proud to see the culmination of our joint efforts come to fruition.”
Since the inception of the Donations Acceptance Program in 2014, GSA has successfully engaged in over 30 partnerships, resulting in about $250 million worth of donation projects at land ports of entry. This latest achievement at the Pharr LPOE marks another milestone in enhancing the nation’s trade infrastructure, driving economic growth, and fostering robust community development.
