The McAllen City Commission approved an award of contract to Wilson Construction Company of McAllen on Monday for the construction of new inbound and outbound commercial facilities and related paving improvements at the Anzalduas International Bridge. The contract is for $81.8 million, with a contract time of 320 days, approximately 11 months. The funding source for the project is a $63 million loan from the North American Development Bank and a $22 million grant from Texas Department of Transportation.

“International trade from Mexico into the United States is of vital importance to the State of Texas and no one understands this better than the City of McAllen,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. “That is why we are investing in constructing the commercial inspection and cargo facilities at Anzalduas International Bridge, which will help to grow this trade for the benefit of not only the United States and Mexico, but also Texas and the local economy, as well.”

City Manager Roel Rodriguez also praised the McAllen City Commission for their commitment to the international crossing. He also thanked the Rio Grande Valley Texas Legislature delegation for their support with the project.

“Thanks to all of their efforts, especially that of Sen. Juan ‘Chuy’ Hinojosa and Chairman Terry Canales, McAllen was able to secure $21 million in state funds, in addition to the $63 million loan from the North American Development Bank for this construction,” said Rodriguez.

Both Villalobos and Rodriguez also praised the work of U.S. Senator John Cornyn, who helped push the federal leg work through that is making the construction a reality.