Grant Awarded for West Texas Infrastructure Project
’These improvements will benefit the border region & the broader Texas economy’
PRESIDIO, TX – (RealEstateRama) — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) approved grant funding this week to repair the Presidio International Rail Bridge and South Orient Railroad, which extends from Presidio to San Angelo. With this funding, Presidio can continue serve as a pillar of Texas trade, benefitting both the border region and the State’s economy. U.S. Representative Will Hurd (R-Texas) championed this initiative to TxDOT and local officials to ensure the line’s rehabilitation and improved operations, and safety.
“Cross-border trade is the lifeblood of many communities in my district. These infrastructure improvements will create jobs and facilitate the flow of goods and services through the region,” said U.S. Representative Will Hurd, whose district includes over 800 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, more than any other Member of Congress. “As one of five rail border crossings between Texas and Mexico, these repairs are vital to Texas’ economy.”
“Representative Hurd worked hard on our behalf to support our efforts to be awarded these monies from the USDOT,” said Tryon Lewis, Texas Transportation Commission Chairman. “ The improvements we make to the rail line and the reconstruction of the rail bridge will assure we can continue to support the industries in Texas that rely on deliveries provided by the South Orient Railroad,” Lewis said.
“Presidio is very grateful to be receiving the FASTLANE 2017 Grant which will provide $7 million in urgently needed repairs to the international rail bridge at Presidio, as well as other repairs for the 72-mile span of rail line from Presidio to the Paisano Junction, near Alpine, Texas. Once completed, Presidio will once again be able to utilize the South Orient Railroad as an economic development tool for the community, as well as facilitating international commerce at the U.S./Mexico border here,” said Presidio Mayor John Ferguson. “Our sincere thanks to Congressman Will Hurd on his timely assistance in making this grant a reality and for his continuing work on behalf our community that also recently included receiving of the Presidential Permit for the International Bridge expansion at Presidio. Presidio sincerely thanks you, Congressman Hurd!”
