**Security Filters at San Ysidro Border to Commence in Sentri Lanes**
Starting this Thursday, November 28, security checks will be initiated on the Mexican side of the San Ysidro border crossing, exclusively in the fast-access Sentri lanes. This effort is part of a larger security and modernization initiative for the San Ysidro and Otay border stations, according to Pedro Montejo Peterson, the Secretary of Economic Development in Tijuana.
The Tijuana city council plans to hire private security personnel to enhance surveillance at these border crossings. The intention is to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians crossing into the United States. These additional security measures will be funded through medical pass fees and the “Tijuana funds” from the first quarter of 2025 starting in January.
The overall goal of these security filters is to detect undocumented individuals attempting to reach inspection booths to seek humanitarian asylum. This will allow the current Customs and Border Protection staff to focus on the inspection booths, opening more lanes and reducing traffic delays on the Mexican side of the crossings.
Initially, these security checks will be implemented in Sentri lanes but will eventually expand to all lanes at both the San Ysidro and Otay crossings next week. The filters will be staffed by the National Institute of Migration, tasked with checking individuals’ documents, while the National Guard and Tijuana police will ensure the safety of the operations.
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**Increased Security and Infrastructure Changes at Tijuana Border Crossings**
The move comes as part of a broader commitment to modernize the Tijuana border crossing facilities. This includes the upcoming installation of filters in December, aimed at streamlining operations and reducing wait times.
In parallel, Tijuana plans to invest revenue from medical passes into border station improvements, intending to increase efficiency and security. Beginning in January 2025, a new fast lane will open in Tecate to expedite border crossings, indicating a focused effort by local authorities to enhance cross-border movement.
Tijuana has seen a slight reduction in homicides this year; however, further measures are suggested to gauge law enforcement efficiency effectively. Meanwhile, local restaurants expect a rise in local customers during Thanksgiving, although fewer diners from the U.S. are anticipated.
The region faces multiple challenges, including potential bureaucratic strikes affecting border operations and a looming energy supply blockade in Rosarito. As Tijuana braces for seasonal rains, finding adequate shelter for those in need becomes another pressing issue. Economic concerns also persist, with high tariffs risking local jobs since nearly half of the industrial output is American-owned.