El Paso Approves $72.55M International Bridges Capital Plan

The El Paso City Council on Nov. 10 approved a $72.55 million capital improvement program for the city's three international bridges, setting out five years of toll, traffic and pedestrian projects at the Paso del Norte, Stanton-Lerdo and Ysleta-Zaragoza ports of entry. The item, listed as File 26-1241 on the council's regular agenda, adopted the project list and funding sources for the Comprehensive International Bridges Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2027 through 2031.

The largest pieces are at Ysleta-Zaragoza. The plan includes $17.9 million for smart traffic technology there, including electronic message signs and cameras that give real-time updates on traffic, port closures and southbound crossing times. That work is already under construction, with completion expected in summer 2027. A further $17 million covers pedestrian and site improvements at the same crossing: shade canopies, pickup and drop-off areas, long-term parking, improved intersections and crosswalks, a plaza with restrooms and an E-Fast Pass customer service office.