By james art LAREDO, Texas (KGNS) – A panel featuring multiple local, federal and international leaders discussed the Columbia Solidarity Bridge improvement and efforts to make the project happen.
The expansion of the Solidarity Bridge in Colombia is expected to double in size, bringing with it thousands of jobs and millions in investment.
Laredo remains one of the nation’s most important ports of entry, handling over 17,000 trailers per day and continuing to report 5% growth in trade.
Improvements being made to the bridge will help manage trade.
These improvements were the subject of a panel discussion between US Congressman Henry Cuellar, Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia, Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino.
The work done to win the presidential go-ahead to begin work was a cause for celebration.
Cuellar mentioned, “What was holding it back was the environmental assessment. We’re not getting rid of the grade, we’re just saying to do it at the same time. In the past, they said to do an environmental assessment and then wait. Now we do everything at the same time.”
According to Cuellar, the project will more than double the number of lanes, increasing from 8 to 16, and more importantly, will help address congestion issues.
“When you add that capacity, two things will happen: One, traffic will move faster, and number two, you’ll be able to handle more traffic and eighteen-wheelers. Instead of having 17,000 trailers a day, you’re talking about a larger amount in the future,” Cuellar added.
he [Cuellar] estimates that the expansion could bring thousands of new jobs with it.
Andrew Caranco of the Laredo Chamber of Commerce explained that the jobs could also be better paying.
“There are warehouse jobs that we’re all familiar with, but by having expansions like this and being part of the supply chain, we have the opportunity to increase our production capabilities. Value-added manufacturing of high-end goods is probably what Laredo will specialize in, our cluster would say. Manufacturing jobs are good, high-paying jobs and good opportunities for the people of Laredo,” Caranco said.
With ongoing talks with Mexico and improvements to the infrastructure needed to conduct trade, officials hoped this would improve efficiency.
Cuellar explained that the presidential authorization itself will not be affected by a change in the presidency, as the documentation has already been submitted and approved.
Cuellar added that he is working to ensure that the city and the private company that owns the bridge itself ensure that the revenue that is collected from the bridges can go back into the Laredo community.
Below is the original article:
Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño hosted an International Trade Press Conference on Wednesday, October 23rd at the La Posada Hotel.
This follows a private meeting with US Senator Ted Cruz, US Congressman Henry Cuellar and Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia.
The meeting focused on growing trade between the US and Mexico. Laredo, as the country’s best port of entry, plays a key role in this trade. Leaders are pushing for more support to repair roads and infrastructure to keep up with trade demands.
The press event started around 4:30 pm in the Philip V Ballroom at La Posada Hotel.
For more titles, click here.
Copyright 2024 KGNS. All rights reserved.