
President Trump delivers on his border security mandate with 10 miles of new wall construction near San Diego, bypassing over 25 federal laws to protect Americans from illegal crossings and drug smuggling.
Story Highlights
- DHS waives environmental laws to expedite 10 miles of new border wall construction in San Diego sector
- Project includes 30-foot barriers near Tecate and Otay Mesa ports of entry, funded through 2029
- Migrant encounters dropped 95% in the sector following increased enforcement measures
- Construction fulfills Trump’s campaign promise using $46.5 billion from “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”
Trump Administration Bypasses Regulatory Obstacles
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem issued waivers for over 25 federal laws, including the Endangered Species Act and Clean Water Act, to expedite border wall construction in San Diego. The waivers, effective April 8, 2025, demonstrate the administration’s commitment to removing bureaucratic barriers that previously hindered border security efforts. This decisive action shows how conservative leadership prioritizes national security over environmental red tape that often stalls critical infrastructure projects.
Strategic Construction Targets High-Traffic Areas
The 10-mile project focuses on vulnerabilities near the Tecate and Otay Mesa ports of entry, historically major crossing points for illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Construction includes 7.6 miles of 30-foot-tall barriers near Tecate, 1.3 miles east of Tecate, and 0.84 miles of secondary barriers near Otay Mesa. Additionally, the project will upgrade over 50 miles of existing infrastructure, creating comprehensive coverage in this critical border sector.
Massive Funding Ensures Long-Term Security
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” allocated $46.5 billion for border infrastructure through fiscal 2029, providing unprecedented resources for wall construction and maintenance. This substantial investment reflects congressional recognition that border security requires sustained funding, not the piecemeal approach of previous administrations. The multi-year funding commitment allows for strategic planning and continuous improvement of border defenses without annual appropriation battles.
Enforcement Success Validates Strong Border Policies
Migrant encounters in the San Diego sector plummeted by 95% over the past year, demonstrating the effectiveness of robust enforcement measures combined with physical barriers. CBP Assistant Commissioner Hilton Beckham emphasized that “President Trump is delivering on the mandate given by the American people to secure our southern border.” This dramatic reduction proves that determined leadership and adequate resources can restore order to previously chaotic border regions, protecting American communities from illegal crossings.
Sources:
PolitiFact – Tracking Trump’s Border Wall Promise
KABC News – DHS Announces 10 Miles of New Wall at San Diego’s High Illegal Entry Areas
Immigration Policy Tracking Project – DHS Waives Requirements for Border Wall Projects
Los Angeles Times – Trump Administration Speeds Up Border Wall Construction
U.S. Customs and Border Protection – DHS Issues Waiver to Expedite New Border Wall Construction