New Border Wall Construction Begins Under Trump Administration
The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced a significant construction contract worth approximately $70 million for the extension of the southern border wall. This marks the first such contract awarded during President Donald Trump’s second term, reflecting a renewed commitment to border security.
Contract Details
The contract has been awarded to Granite Construction Co., a California-based firm experienced in government projects. Under this agreement, the company is tasked with constructing about seven additional miles of the wall in Hidalgo County, Texas. CBP highlighted the need to “close critical openings” that were only partially addressed in previous constructions during Trump’s first presidency.
Goals of the Construction
According to Border Patrol, the newly constructed sections of the wall are intended to enhance the Department of Homeland Security’s capabilities in preventing illegal border crossings. The area is known for significant undocumented migration and illicit drug trafficking activity, making it a focal point for these efforts.
Official Commencement of Construction
On March 16, 2025, Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, shared via social media that construction had officially commenced. She remarked, “As of today, we’re starting seven new miles of construction. We’re going to continue to make America safe again,” while highlighting the need for improved security at the border.
Implications of the Border Wall Initiative
This initiative, aimed at curbing illegal immigration, has drawn heightened attention from federal authorities since Trump’s return to office. Among his executive directives, Trump issued orders titled “Securing our Borders” and “Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border of the United States,” mandating the Department of Homeland Security to pursue full operational control over the southern border.
Recent Visits by Administration Officials
In a recent visit to the southern border, key administration figures including Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the ongoing efforts to tackle illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Vance noted the decline in illegal border crossings since Trump’s previous tenure, expressing optimism that the entire border wall could be constructed by the term’s end.
For more details on the construction and its implications, follow developments from CBP and the Department of Homeland Security.
