BROWNSVILLE, Texas — The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officially broke ground for the modernization of the Brownsville-Gateway Land Port of Entry in Brownsville, Texas, according to a media release.
“As the nation prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, this investment reflects the Trump Administration’s commitment to building mission-focused infrastructure that ensures our country remains secure, connected and moving forward,” the release stated.
“GSA continues to fortify the federal portfolio by investing in critical infrastructure,” said GSA Administrator Edward C. Forst. “We are delivering on the President’s promise to secure our borders by building new, modernized facilities that ensure our immigration and customs law enforcement officers have the resources they need to keep America safe.”
The release added that the project would enhance border security, replace outdated infrastructure, double inspection lanes, and deliver “purpose-built space for our federal partners.”
“GSA will strengthen border operations, support economic growth, and provide lasting value to American taxpayers and the nation,” the release added.
The project will renovate the current land port of entry by demolishing existing facilities and expanding key areas.
A new 48,000-square-foot administration building will replace the current 22,000-square-foot space, providing an updated facility for federal inspection agencies. The inspection area will expand to 10 primary inspection lanes and 24 secondary inspection spaces with canopies, up from five lanes and 15 spaces, respectively.
The 500-square-foot headhouse will be upgraded to a new 6,000-square-foot building. Additional upgrades include a new 9,000-square-foot outbound inspection area, and new parking lots to accommodate staff and visitors.
“We are strengthening our borders and ensuring our workforce is equipped with the right tools on the ground,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott. “This investment ensures our officers continue to have the necessary facilities, technology, and resources to perform their duties safely, effectively, and efficiently. We are grateful to our partners for making this possible and look forward to its completion.”
CBP called this port of entry a vital crossing point on nine acres in downtown Brownsville.
“Every month, this facility, which connects to the Gateway International Bridge, handles a significant volume of traffic, including approximately 148,000 passenger vehicles and 157,000 pedestrians in March 2026, alone,” the release stated. “In operation since the 1920s, the land port of entry has seen limited renovations since the 1990s, making this project crucial to update and modernize the facility to enhance security and efficiency.”
“Our nation’s ports of entry are vital to facilitate trade and travel while protecting against illegal goods and national security threats,” said Senator John Cornyn. “The modernized Brownsville-Gateway Land Port of Entry will streamline operations and the flow of commerce.”
Project completion is scheduled for late 2029.
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
