This morning I began an extensive two-day trade tour to Mexico with fellow officials and business leaders. I have learned so much about the importance of strengthening our economic ties and cooperating as a region to improve the quality of life on both sides of the border.
The San Diego-Tijuana border crossing is the busiest land border crossing in the world, with over 40 million crossings each year. This number is expected to increase significantly over coming years.
Congestion at the border is causing a backup in the supply chain that is suppressing growth in manufacturing. In fact, studies have shown that border congestion is costing the bi-national region up to $7.2 billion in lost economic growth and 62,000 jobs.
After meeting with several Mexican business leaders today, I learned that this is a major issue that needs to be improved. Below are some ideas I listed in my Pathway to Prosperity jobs plan to help improve the situation:
- Build a third border crossing: A new modern border crossing facility is the only way to ensure that we meet the growing needs of individuals and businesses who rely on crossing the border.
- Improve Capacity at Current Crossing Locations: Current crossings are already near-capacity. It is important to expand capacity at the border through infrastructure improvements, as well as new technologies and best management practices.
- Regional Approach to Economic Development and Growth: A cooperative relationship between the two regions is vital to creating opportunities and jobs on both sides of the border
It has been a productive trade tour so far and I am looking forward to the rest of the trip. I am optimistic about San Diego’s future cross-border relationships after having met so many individuals who are dedicated to improving cooperation in our regional economy.
More to come…