California Governor Gavin Newsom gave an update regarding the construction of the new California-Mexico port of entry –also known as Otay II or Otay Mesa East– designed to boost growing international trade. This project aims to lower costs for consumers and their families and speed up border crossing waiting times for businesses and workers. A new public security strategy focused on combating transnational crime was also announced.

In a recent press conference at the US-Mexico border, the Democrat governor announced that the construction and expansion of the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry –one of Mexico and America’s busiest border crossings– is set to begin in the upcoming weeks.

Furthermore, it was revealed that the construction of a highway leading to the new port of entry will be sped up. This new port of entry will feature a dynamic toll system that will adjust based on demand. Income generated will be equally divided between both countries.

Governor Gavin Newsom stated:

This new port-of-entry will strengthen California's world-leading economy, create jobs and support regional communities through trade. At the same time, we're further stepping up border security with a new CalGuard initiative targeting the cash and weapons that fuel cartel violence, complementing our successful efforts to block fentanyl from entering our state.

He also mentioned that California will show that one can build strong international partnerships with Mexico (America's top trading partner) to grow the economy and create jobs while prioritizing the safety and well-being of communities.

What will Governor Newsom's project accomplish?

This new port of entry will help reduce delays at the ports of entry throughout the southern border and speed up the trade that contributes to the continuous and prosperous success of California's economy. Moreover, the CalGuard initiative will improve public security by halting the flow of firearms, cash, and drugs used by cartels.

It should be noted that the construction of the Otay Mesa East Port of Entry has been planned for a long time. California will invest 480 million dollars of its own funds in this project. However, Newsom has admitted that Donald Trump will have to authorize the budget so that this port of entry can be finalized and begin operations in December 2027.