
The construction project includes a new main building, commercial and noncommercial inspection facilities, pedestrian crossing, and export facilities.
The request now must be approved by Congress.
U.S. Senator Tom Udall, a member of the Appropriations Committee, said an investment in the Columbus port of entry is an investment in jobs and an opportunity for Luna County.
U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich said New Mexico's border region helps boost our state's economy and a modern port of entry in Columbus would lead to more efficient trade between the United States and Mexico, help accommodate the growth between commercial and commuter crossing in the region, and help create good jobs.
A General Services Administration project summary says the existing workspace and inspection facilities at the Columbus port do not meet federal agency operational needs.
The construction project would expand existing facilities to ease future traffic volumes and improve the site to control storm water flow.
Since its construction in 1989, the Columbus port has seen a rise in the number of screened visitors and significant changes to the inspection process.
With increased commercial traffic, the Columbus port of entry is anticipating additional growth over the next 15 years.