U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), and the City of Donna have formalized an agreement to expand the Donna Land Port of Entry for commercial traffic through a Donation Acceptance Agreement.
Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino of CBP’s Office of Field Operations stated, “We have reached a significant milestone in this project thanks to years of strategic planning and close collaboration between the City of Donna, GSA, and CBP. As we advance with the construction of the ‘port of the future,’ I am confident that our strong partnership with federal colleagues and the City of Donna will lead to its successful completion.”
The project is part of CBP’s Donations Acceptance Program, which allows partnerships with public and private entities to improve port infrastructure. The new facility will feature nonintrusive inspection technology for both northbound and southbound commercial vehicles.
GSA Acting Administrator Michael Rigas commented, “GSA is proud to partner with CBP and the City of Donna to advance President Trump’s commitment to border security. Through this innovative project, we are delivering significant savings to American taxpayers, ensuring secure infrastructure, and supporting American workers.”
CBP and GSA accepted the proposal in April 2017. Since then, teams have worked on designing a modern port intended to meet current demands while using advanced technology for more efficient processing. With this agreement signed, construction can now begin.
Mayor David Moreno described the agreement as a historic moment for Donna: “Today marks a historic milestone for the City of Donna. Through a groundbreaking agreement with CBP and GSA, we are unleashing over $62 million in crucial infrastructure investments at the Donna International Bridge, the largest project of its kind in our city’s history. This is more than just infrastructure; it’s a bold investment in our people, our progress, and Donna’s future as a key player in international trade. These improvements will not only elevate border security and expand trade capacity but will also open new economic opportunities for Donna, the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, and our global partners. We are setting the stage for a prosperous future, and Donna is leading the way.”
Under federal law, CBP and GSA can accept donations from both government agencies and private sector organizations—including real property or monetary contributions—to support projects like this one.
Mayor Moreno added further praise: “The Donna International Bridge is more than a crossing; it is a global gateway and a corridor that connects communities, drives commerce, and fuels prosperity. This project cements Donna’s role as the Heart of the Valley and elevates our region onto the world stage as a hub for international connection and cooperation. On behalf of the City of Donna, I extend our deepest gratitude to CBP and GSA for their vision and partnership. Together, we are building more than infrastructure; we are shaping a global future. This defining moment for Donna will echo across borders, industries, and generations to come.”
Public-private partnerships like this one form part of CBP’s strategy to optimize resources by providing new or expanded services at domestic ports.
For more information about these initiatives or related programs visit www.cbp.gov/DAP.
