How changes at the San Luis Port of Entry are impacting both sides of the border
SAN LUIS, Ariz. (KYMA) - People on both sides of the border are sharing their thoughts on how the changes at the San Luis Port of Entry is impacting them.
Last month, the San Luis Port of Entry opened eight lanes, two for sentry travelers and six for all traffic, and there will be eight more lanes when construction finishes.
The new border crossing will be at Second Street in San Luis, Mexico and will come in to the U.S. through William Brooks Avenue and Urtuzuastegui Street.
When we spoke with San Luis, Arizona Mayor Nieves Riedel last month, she says the new access will boost the local businesses.
While the U.S. side of the project appears more complete, construction and changes on the Mexico side is impacting traffic flow.
The Mexico side of the border exit is still under construction, leading to frustration for border crossers as temperatures begin to rise.
"Over there, you still don't really see much action that makes you feel like it's close to being finished yet. So, it's a mess either way," said Maria Robles, a resident of San Luis, Arizona.
Residents in San Luis, Arizona say the new pedestrian routes are forcing people to walk much farther than before, making it difficult for elderly people and those carrying groceries or luggage.
"Why do they make us walk so far? Me, I'm older. I have to carry groceries sometimes, I get exhausted. I think they should make the exit right here, I don't know why Mexico hasn't finished their exit," said Emma Ruelles, another resident of San Luis, Arizona.
Residents say they hope Mexican authorities can speed up construction to help ease delays and make crossing the border easier.
"It's just way too...unnecessary. The detour is so long, both coming in and going out," said Rafael Guerrero, who works on Main Street.
Guerrero says it's also affecting businesses on Main Street since people now have to go around the long way instead of walking straight in like before.
"My suggestion would be to open the path [on Main Street] so people can cross more easily," Guerrero explained.
As of right now, no date is set for construction to be finished, and border crossers say they hope the changes improve traffic flow in the long run.
