Texas Lawmakers Urge Pause on Border Project in Big Bend National Park Amid Environmental Concerns
Texas Democrats are calling on the Trump administration to halt plans for constructing border barriers and roads in Big Bend National Park. The project, led by Southwest Valley Constructors, involves building vehicle barriers, surveillance technology, and patrol roads as part of a $1.7 billion contract. Concerns have been raised about potential environmental impacts, including debris affecting the Rio Grande, which could violate the 1970 Boundary Treaty with Mexico. U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, a South Texas Democrat, supports strong border security but insists it should respect the park's integrity. Cuellar has been assured by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that no explosives will be used on Mariscal Mountain, a key area of concern.