Rep. Grijalva Joins Ribbon Cutting at Mariposa Land Port of Entry

Press Release

Today, Congressman Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly expanded and modernized Mariposa Land Port of Entry in Nogales, Arizona. As one of the busiest land ports in the United States, the Mariposa Land Port of Entry serves as the main point of entry for fresh produce from Mexico and primary distribution point on our southern border.

"The Mariposa Land Port of Entry represents the future of commerce along our southern border," said Rep. Grijalva. "Too often, the borderlands are characterized by an unyielding wall; the reality is this region is also a window into other cultures, allowing us to enjoy foods and products from Mexico and beyond. Expanding and streamlining the flow of people and goods through that window is vital for our region and state to remain competitive in the global economy."

Renovation of the Mariposa Land Port of Entry included the demolition and new construction of all facilities within the land port of entry, including primary and secondary inspection areas for both commercial and non-commercial vehicles, a new administration building, a pedestrian processing facility, a new canine kennel, and other support structures. The project, which was completed August 20th, was one of the General Services Administration's (GSA) largest American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) projects, with nearly $174 million of the approximately $187 million total provided by the ARRA.

"This renovation project is proof positive that smart, timely investment by the federal government is critical to stimulating job growth," Grijalva continued. "Construction jobs created by ARRA funds to update this facility were only the tip of the iceberg -- the lasting economic impact will be felt throughout the private sector as businesses benefit from infrastructure designed to let them thrive in the 21st Century."

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