**Mexican Border Checkpoint in San Ysidro to Review Immigration Documentation: Opening More Booths Delayed**
Before the end of this month, Mexican authorities plan to re-establish a checkpoint just meters before the San Ysidro border crossing to manage illegal crossing attempts into the United States. Pedro Montejo Peterson, head of the Economic Development Ministry of Tijuana (Sedeti), announced this initiative. The checkpoint will involve the Municipal Police for security and the National Institute of Migration (INM) for reviewing immigration documents.
Currently, only 17 of the 25 inspection booths at San Ysidro are operational, resulting in long lines and traffic chaos on the Mexican side. Montejo Peterson stated that the goal is to move U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents, who are currently handling these reviews, back to the inspection booths to speed up the border-crossing process.
However, the opening of additional lanes for entry into the United States will not be immediate. “We need to show results first. Once the system proves effective, then the commitment is for the agents to be repositioned,” he said.
Montejo Peterson added that enhancing security and implementing a review filter in the area has been a consistent request from U.S. authorities. Furthermore, they plan to improve lighting and enhance security at pedestrian entry points to Mexico, through El Chaparral and the Otay checkpoint.
In November 2022, a temporary “binational filter” was installed for reviewing vehicles when migrants began crossing in vehicles to surrender to immigration authorities upon reaching U.S. soil, just meters before the inspection booths. Additionally, there are plans to create more lanes for U.S.-bound traffic, particularly for the FastLane program, and reconfigure existing lanes to lead directly to the inspection booths.
**Secondary Article: The Ongoing Challenges at the U.S.-Mexico Border**
The border between the U.S. and Mexico continues to face challenges, particularly with irregular crossings despite ongoing restrictions. As the political landscape evolves, particularly with the potential return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, there are growing concerns about an increase in deportations and stricter border policies.
Recent data show that the number of deportations might rise, as policy shifts take place. Moreover, illegal crossings have persisted, compelling both governments to enhance their border management strategies significantly.
Efforts such as the installation of new checkpoints and increasing lane capacities are part of broader strategies to manage these challenges. Both nations are emphasizing technological and infrastructural advancements to cope with the growing demands at one of the world’s busiest border crossings.
For Tijuana and surrounding regions, the border’s operability directly impacts the local economies, with businesses and industries closely monitoring changes and preparing for any economic repercussions of shifting U.S. border policies. The balancing of security with efficient border movement remains a priority for officials on both sides of the border.