Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have allocated $4.5 billion to build new barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. This project will extend about 230 miles with the addition of technology, such as cameras and sensors, to improve monitoring. The expansion is part of efforts under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and includes waivers to speed up construction in certain areas.
Key Facts
- DHS and CBP are building about 230 miles of new Smart Wall on the southwest border.
- Smart Wall improvements include steel fencing, patrol roads, lighting, cameras, and sensors.
- Contracts were awarded between September 15 and 30, 2023.
- This expansion is backed by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and leftover funds from 2021.
- Waivers were issued to speed up construction, including 9 miles in the San Diego sector.
- Key construction areas include California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
- A $96 million project will add 17 miles of floating barriers on the Rio Grande.
- A 2025 Pew Research Center study shows 56% of Americans support expanding the border wall.
