TX - New roads for Border Patrol in Starr County

by Ashly Custer
Posted: 11.10.2013 at 11:45 PM
valleycentral.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=NbuOiBWNm2g

New and longer lasting roads are being built for border patrol agents in what is considered one of the most challenging areas in the Rio Grande Valley.

Border Patrol Agent in Charge Ryan Scudder said well paved roads in rural Starr county are far and few between.

"For us, it’s a Homeland Security need so we look at it where we need to be-from point A to point B, what roads connect to there, and where can we get those roads," said Scudder.

The project was coordinated by Joint Task Force North, which looks for volunteer military units to complete projects ordered by the Department of Justice and Homeland Security.

A naval group based in Gulfport, Mississippi called the, Seabees, tackled the project.

Not only does it provide on the job training for these naval engineers, it also helps Border Patrol agents more efficiently secure the US/Mexico border.

"The smugglers are utilizing foot trails and other way to go around…So if we can laterally parallel the river- we can patrol and stop them from entering in the first place or apprehend them as soon as possible, before they get to the more populated areas," said Scudder.

Agents used to have to drive on rocky dirt roads.

Not only were they more difficult to drive on, but they would also wash away after a heavy rainfall.

With nearly a mile of new roadway, drainage features, and a concrete low water crossing, agents are able to travel more quickly and safely through remote areas along the river, which make it easier for them to police our international border.

Border Patrol said the new roads will also save them money.

The rough terrain can take a toll on their vehicles, but the new roads will help cut back on vehicle maintenance.

http://www.valleycentral.com/news/st...3#.UoGhr-Itodw