“The challenges we face in the Rio Grande Valley are not unlike those in other communities experiencing unprecedented economic growth,” said Hinojosa.  “In order to sustain this growth, we must ensure that we operate commercial centers of excellence, make the necessary transportation and infrastructure improvements, and provide job opportunities to keep our unemployment rates in the single digits.”

In August 2006, after a year of negotiations between Congressman Hinojosa, U.S. Customs, the General Services Administration (GSA), and the City of Donna, it was determined that the GSA was ready to proceed with donating the land and design fund for the Federal Inspection Facilities portion of the project. 

In 1979, the City of Donna was issued a presidential permit by the United States Department of State to construct, maintain and operate a bridge across the Rio Grande River.  Due to a lack of financial resources, the project never got off the ground.  In 1993, the city began the necessary engineering studies to construct the bridge, however, progress remained slow and the project again stalled.

In 2002, the Cities of Donna and Mercedes negotiated a partnership to jointly undertake the engineering studies and construction project.  The Donna-Mercedes International Bridge Corporation completed the majority of the engineering studies, which were approved by U.S. and Mexican agencies.  However, the partnership ended following elections.

The City of Donna decided to move forward anyway, and created the Donna International Bridge Corporation to complete the remaining engineering plans and bring the project closer to construction.  In 2005, the Corporation received environmental clearance and a U.S. Coast Guard permit allowing the project to be constructed by U.S. Customs.

Saturday’s event marks transfer of the site land to the city, and moves the project forward to its final phase.

“Today marks a significant day in the progress of this project, and marks a significant day for the City of Donna,” continued Hinojosa.  “Once finished, the Donna-Rio Bravo Bridge will provide a conduit for continued and increased trade between the U.S. and Mexico, more jobs, and an overall opportunity for the City and this community to grow and prosper.”

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