Larger facility to be built at Calexico Port of Entry to increase efficiency

CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The final phase of a $200 million expansion to the Calexico West Land Port of Entry is moving ahead after the city approved the sale of a portion of Heffernan Avenue to the federal government.

The land transfer clears the way for a temporary pedestrian facility that will allow for the demolition of the aging port and the construction of a larger, modern facility with increased capacity.

"The facility will in large be to increase the processing capacity by 100%," said Michael Coyne, Calexico's Planning and Building Director. "Right now, there's six booths, and now that’ll be 12."

Local merchants are also hopeful the project will drive more foot traffic into downtown Calexico.

"I ask them to make sure that when people are walking, people have shade," said Joong Kim, a business owner in the area. "Because when it's over 100 degrees, people can’t handle it."

City officials say the improvements are not only about efficiency, but also comfort and safety for those who cross the border daily.

The full expansion is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.