U.S. General Services Administration
FAST Lanes Reduce Wait Times at GSA’s World Trade Land Port of Entry
Trade is a driving factor for the U.S. economy making commerce with our neighbors in Mexico of key importance. As the government’s landlord, the General Services Administration owns and manages most of the GSA’s Land Ports of Entry in the nation. These ports facilitate the crossing of commercial vehicles as well as people and privately owned vehicles. The efficient processing of commercial vehicles in and out of LPOEs directly impacts our country’s economy.
GSA works closely with Customs and Border and Protection who fulfill their agency’s mission to protect America along our borders at LPOEs. Together we ensure the LPOEs operate safely and efficiently with the latest technology to meet the needs of CBP.
Through GSA’s Donations Program, GSA and CBP recently expanded their partnership to include the City of Laredo at the Word Trade LPOE in Laredo, Texas. The formal partnership includes the donation of infrastructure and technology services to construct Free and Secure Trade for Commercial Vehicles (FAST) lanes to facilitate commercial truck processing at the LPOE.
“Partnerships with CBP and local stakeholders on donations projects like this one align with GSA’s vision to provide effective and efficient government for the American people,” said GSA Acting Regional Administrator Giancarlo Brizzi. “Expedited processing of commercial trade with Mexico helps to boost the U.S. economy while supporting CBP’s mission to protect and safeguard our borders while enhancing the nation’s economic recovery.”
“The Donations Acceptance Agreement with the City of Laredo is another strong example of federal and local governments working together to create opportunities for American workers and businesses,” said William A. Ferrara, Executive Assistant Commissioner of the CBP Office of Field Operations. “The construction of FAST lanes at the World Trade Bridge will address longstanding infrastructure challenges and facilitate flows of cross-border trade and travel that are vital to our economy.”
The current port layout and the high volume of commercial truck traffic at the World Trade Bridge cause severe bottlenecking that stretches into Mexico. The FAST lanes will reduce wait times for all travelers at the port by diverting pre-approved, low-risk commercial carriers to designated lanes for expedited processing.
The new FAST lanes will be completed in Summer 2022.