U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28), alongside Senator John Cornyn, successfully passed the Starr-Camargo Bridge Expansion Act.
This legislation allows the expansion of the Starr-Camargo Bridge in Rio Grande City, a critical trade link between Texas and Mexico. Having passed the Senate, the bill is now on its way to the President’s desk for final approval.
“In 2023, Mexico ranked first among all U.S. trading partners, with $798.8 billion in total trade in goods. The Starr-Camargo Bridge facilitates hundreds of millions of dollars of cross-border trade and serves as a crucial connector between South Texas and Mexico,” said Congressman Cuellar. “The proposed expansion project will ease congestion, reduce truck idling at the port of entry, and help alleviate supply chain issues.”
Starr County Judge Eloy Vera added, “The passage of the Starr Camargo Bridge Expansion Act is a significant step towards continuing our promotion of efficient cross-border commerce. In addition, the ability for multimodule growth will greatly increase the capacity for diverse trade and enhanced economic opportunities. We congratulate everyone involved in making this effort a reality.”
Congressman Cuellar introduced the House companion bill, H.R. 3569, successfully passed in Committee.
The Starr-Camargo Bridge is a privately owned toll bridge. Its authorization for construction had expired, requiring an extension to move forward with the planned expansion and rail bridge addition. Importantly, no taxpayer money will be used for the project, as toll revenues will cover the costs. Furthermore, the bridge is exempt from needing a Presidential permit for the expansion, as it predates the 1972 International Bridge Act.
Rio Grande City, home to the Starr-Camargo Bridge, is a historic border town with deep cultural and economic ties to Mexico. This expansion is expected to bring additional growth and opportunities to the region, reinforcing the city’s role as a key player in U.S.-Mexico trade relations.
