Valley cities receive notice about border wall's construction

Wednesday, May 9th 2018



Several letters are signaling big changes to two Valley cities.

U.S Customs and Border Protection is requesting access to land in Donna and Mission.

But, the land that's being requested in Mission is owned by the Diocese of Brownsville.

The diocese says they were also sent a letter by CBP:

"We have received requests for a "right of entry for survey and site assessment" on property within the diocese, which encompasses Juan Diego Academy and La Lomita chapel in Mission... Our attorney is currently reviewing the request so we can determine how best to proceed."

La Lomita Chapel was one of the first location's to hear that the border wall would cut through it, and now, Juan Diego Academy has been added to the list.

It's news that was disappointing to parents whose children attend the academy.

"Gosh, its really disheartening," said parent Lisa Chapa. "It’s an awesome school and one I’m against the border wall. I feel, as human beings, we need to do everything we can for people who are just trying to better themselves.”

The exact fate of the academy is unclear.

Uncertainty is also the case in Donna.

While it's not clear what areas could be affected by the wall, CBP’s letter states that the the U.S. government needs the access for environmental assessments, property surveys and appraisals for a period of 18 months.

It goes on to say that the areas may be needed for the construction of border walls, lighting, and roads which are 'critical elements' to gain effective control of the nation’s borders.

The city of Mission has not taken up the item, but the Donna City Council did approve CBP’s request at a special meeting in April.

http://valleycentral.com/news/local/...s-construction