$1.7 Billion Border Wall Contract in Big Bend Contradicts CBP Assurance
In an eyebrow-raising twist, the CBP awarded a $1.7 billion contract for a ‘border wall’ in Big Bend just days after assuring the public there wouldn’t be one. The money trail is leaving some muddy footprints.
Just when we thought the script was polished, it seems there’s been a pricey improvisation. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assured no wall would tear through Big Bend National Park, then promptly signed a $1.7 billion contract ominously labeled ‘border wall in Big Bend Texas.’ The discrepancy between policy and procurement raises more than a few eyebrows—not to mention suspicions.
About a week prior to signing the contract, CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott gave the Washington Examiner and Texas Tribune reassuring words that there wouldn’t be a barrier spoiling Big Bend’s picturesque landscape. Consider those words the equivalent of the lobbyist cologne; fragrant but fleeting.
But on May 11, Southwest Valley Constructors Co. bagged a hefty deal—$1.7 billion worth—for 17 miles of vehicle barriers and 205 miles of patrol roads and surveillance tech. That’s quite the canvas, even if CBP insists it’s painting with a different brush than the words ‘border wall’ imply.
Not skipping a dance step, on May 19, the CBP issued a statement that no 30-foot wall would be erected. Just some quaint post-on-rail barriers and a modern bouquet of cameras. Meanwhile, the contract’s designation hasn’t updated its blunt description.
Mapping the mix-up only adds to the intrigue, as CBP’s online ‘Smart Wall’ map twisted from physical to virtual classifications. This was after it mysteriously disappeared and reappeared like it had something to hide. Where’s a good map reader when you need one?
Down on the ground, locals, environmentalists, and archaeologists aren’t buying it. They voice concerns about wildlife disruptions, cultural site impacts, and potential hits to the tourism economy. With each overlooked invoice, trust takes another hit.
Ultimately, it seems cheaper for some folks to say nothing than build something. But when the receipts start talking, even the finest lobbyist cologne can’t mask the scent of contradiction.
Sources
- Texas Tribune–$1.7 billion contract awarded after CBP assurance
- National Parks Traveler–Contract details: 17 miles barriers, 205 miles roads/tech
- Marfa Public Radio–CBP clarification about what the contract covers
Keep Me Marginally Informed