California Construction News staff writer
A historic agreement has been signed to strengthen California’s partnership with Mexico and advances key border projects.
The new Toll Revenue Sharing Agreement supports construction of the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry at the San Diego-Tijuana border, a facility that will reduce wait times, curb greenhouse gas emissions, power economic growth and bolster binational trade along the busiest border region in the Western Hemisphere.
“Mexico is one of California’s most important international partners and we share a deep bond that stretches back generations,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “At a time when states are using the border as a wedge issue to divide people, California and Mexico are showing how cross-border agreements can strengthen our communities while growing our economy and bringing a host of shared benefits.”
The Otay Mesa East Port of Entry project has also received $150 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the largest award nationally. It will be used for construction of the new border crossing site and transportation infrastructure.
The new port of entry is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024.
“This new agreement, which I signed as a witness today, will bring economic prosperity to our cross-border region,” said Lt. Governor Kounalakis. “The Otay Mesa East Port of Entry is a vital link in our nation’s supply chain and in creating thousands of jobs. This historic revenue sharing agreement solidifies the joint commitment of California and the Government of Mexico to boosting trade and creating jobs.”
Construction is a joint venture between SANDAG and Caltrans. Proposed border improvements include constructing a four-lane, tolled road connecting directly to a Customs and Border Protection Land Port of Entry.
California recently invested $477 million to support the state’s model COVID-19 response and humanitarian efforts at the southern border.
