Cameron County warns rising border wait times could disrupt trade, regional economy

Cameron County officials are calling on U.S. Customs and Border Protection to address increased northbound inspections at international bridges, warning that prolonged wait times could disrupt commerce and daily cross-border travel.

County leaders said they have received complaints and concerns about intensified vehicle inspections at ports of entry, which have led to longer delays for traffic entering the United States from Tamaulipas.

Officials said the increased inspection activity risks slowing supply chains serving cities across Cameron County and could have broader economic impacts across the Rio Grande Valley.

“The County and our community have done its part,” Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. said in a news release last week. “CBP must work with local partners to ensure wait times are kept to a minimum while maintaining effective operations.”

Cameron County has invested millions of dollars in recent years to improve infrastructure at its international bridges, aiming to increase safety, reduce congestion, and improve processing efficiency in coordination with federal agencies.

Officials said Cameron County plays a critical role in supporting national priorities, including energy, space, and national security, while also serving as a key gateway for trade and travel between the United States and Mexico.

Leaders are urging CBP to work collaboratively with local partners to identify solutions that maintain security standards while reducing delays.

“We respect and appreciate everything CBP does to ensure Cameron County and our nation are protected,” Treviño said. “At the same time, we must also be mindful of our constituents and visitors who live and travel back and forth to Mexico on a regular basis as well as respect the economic vitality of Cameron County, the Rio Grande Valley and the state of Texas.”