Austin News

September 17, 2024

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) released statements following the signing into law of their Starr-Camargo Bridge Expansion Act. The legislation authorizes an increase in the number of lanes for the toll bridge or allows a rail line to be built from Rio Grande City, Texas, to Mexico, facilitating hundreds of millions of dollars in cross-border trade.

“As an important trade route between the U.S. and Mexico, the Starr-Camargo Bridge has made significant contributions to the economy of South Texas and the nation,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Now that this legislation has been signed into law, we will be able to help resolve traffic congestion and supply chain issues, improve efficiency, and ensure U.S. trade continues to grow.”

“I am proud to have partnered with Senator Cornyn on the Starr-Camargo and many other cross-border bridge projects—like the World Trade Bridge in Laredo—that are essential to interstate commerce,” said Sen. Cruz. “These bridges will not only improve trade between the U.S. and Mexico but bring more jobs to Texas and promote a mutually beneficial relationship with our neighbor to the south.”

“Strengthening our infrastructure at key international crossings like the Starr-Camargo Bridge is essential for boosting our economy and ensuring the smooth flow of goods across our borders,” said Sen. Kelly. “This expansion will not only ease congestion and enhance trade but also support American jobs and businesses—all without burdening taxpayers. I’m proud to see this important legislation signed into law to help strengthen our supply chains and reduce the cost of goods for Americans.”

The legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and cosponsored by Congressmen Michael McCaul (TX-10), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), and Michael Lawler (NY-17). The bill passed the Senate on July 27, 2023, and passed the House on September 9, 2024.

The Starr-Camargo Bridge is an international bridge between Mexico and the United States that serves as an efficient route between the Rio Grande Valley and Mexican cities like Monterrey and Mexico City. This expansion would be fully paid for by existing user fees.