Douglas, Arizona – A $20 million federal investment will fund a connector road linking State Route 80 to a new commercial port of entry in Douglas, expanding cross-border trade infrastructure.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, the funding comes from a recently signed federal infrastructure bill and will support construction of a four-lane roadway connecting SR 80 to the planned Douglas commercial port of entry.
U.S. Sens. Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego of Arizona supported the funding, which state officials say will improve freight movement efficiency while reducing congestion and enhancing safety in the area.
The connector project is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2027.
Meanwhile, construction on the new commercial port of entry for commercial vehicles began last September several miles west of the Raul Hector Castro Port of Entry in downtown Douglas. The facility is expected to be completed in fall 2028.
According to state officials, the new port is designed to increase capacity, reduce congestion and safety concerns, and expand commercial vehicle inspection operations to accommodate growing cross-border trade.
The development is expected to affect regional freight corridors, including SR 80 and nearby connector roads, with long-term impacts on cross-border commerce in southern Arizona.
Young workers and cross-border commuters may see changes in travel patterns as construction progresses in the coming years.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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