Texas Border Business
Pharr, Texas – In a major step forward for infrastructure enhancement and economic growth, the City of Pharr celebrated the allocation of $20 million for the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge. This significant funding was made possible by Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and Texas State Representative Terry Canales, Chairman of the Transportation Committee.
Senator Hinojosa and Chairman Canales championed legislation, during the 88th Texas Legislative Session, that secured $20 million from the state budget to be directed to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), which in turn allocated the money to the City of Pharr. This funding is designated for building a second span of the Pharr International Bridge, a crucial infrastructure initiative for the city.
The City of Pharr expressed its profound gratitude for the unwavering support from Senator Hinojosa, Representative Canales, the Texas Legislature, and TxDOT in advancing this critical expansion.
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., underscored the significance of this funding, stating, “This $20 million allocation represents a monumental investment in the future of Pharr. The expansion of the Pharr International Bridge will not only accommodate the increasing volumes of trade but will also ensure the efficient movement of goods.” He added, “This project is a testament to our commitment to fostering economic growth and improving infrastructure for the betterment of our community and beyond.”
As the third-largest port in Texas for trade with Mexico, and the seventh-largest and fastest-growing land port of entry nationwide, the Pharr International Bridge is a pivotal hub for commerce. It facilitates 65% of the nation’s produce imports from Mexico and handles over $47 billion in annual trade. The bridge plays a crucial role in driving the economic engine of Pharr, benefiting the entire region, state, and nation.
“The City of Pharr and its bridge is one of the key bridges and the number one trading partner with the State of Texas and Mexico in terms of vegetables and fruits, so we need to make sure that we increase capacity,” said Senator Hinojosa. “Working together, Chairman Canales and I were able to secure an additional $20 million to help make this project a reality,” he added.
The expansion of the Pharr International Bridge is essential to manage the increasing volumes of trade and to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of goods from Mexico. This project highlights Pharr’s dedication to infrastructure development that fosters economic prosperity by boosting trade and connectivity. The project is expected to be completed at end of 2025.