SANTA TERESA, New Mexico (KVIA) – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is closing its public comment period today for a proposed border barrier project in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. The proposal includes the construction and maintenance of approximately 1.32 miles of new border barrier along the south side of Mount Cristo Rey in the Sunland Park area.

CBP is also advancing plans for three additional projects in the El Paso Sector:

• Santa Teresa Secondary Wall Project: ~7 miles, located east of the Jerónimo–Santa Teresa Port of Entry
• 16-4 Wall Project Anapra: ~1.3 miles, along Mount Cristo Rey
• El Paso Sector 2 Wall Project & Port of Entry (POE) Gate: ~0.2 miles and a 40-foot gate

"Together, these projects will close critical gaps in the border wall and enhance border security operations in the U.S. Border Patrol’s El Paso, Tucson, and Yuma Sectors. The waivers were issued pursuant to Section 102 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996," CBP officials said in a statement.

Those wishing to comment must submit input via email to ElPasoComments@cbp.dhs.gov by the end of today. Emails must include “El Paso Sector Border Barrier Construction” in the subject line. CBP clarified that, “Comments received in response to this letter, including names and addresses of those who comment, will become part of the public record.”

The proposed 1.32-mile barrier would add to an expanding network of wall segments in the region, focusing on areas deemed high priority by federal officials for drug trafficking and unauthorized crossings. The targeted location near Mount Cristo Rey, a well-known religious pilgrimage site and hiking destination, has raised concern among conservation groups and local residents about possible disruption to public access and the area’s cultural significance.

Environmental groups have expressed concern that bypassing environmental reviews—made possible through legal waivers—could harm sensitive ecosystems and wildlife migration routes. Nonetheless, the federal government argues the urgency of national security justifies the expedited process.

This round of wall construction falls under the Trump administration’s renewed immigration enforcement push, which has prioritized completing and reinforcing barriers in high-traffic sectors like El Paso.

Local leaders and advocacy organizations have encouraged residents to make their voices heard before the comment window closes. Once today passes, the CBP will move forward with finalizing its plans based on input received.

The projects are part of a broader multi-sector strategy that also includes troop deployments, additional surveillance technology, and expanded patrol operations across the southern border.

Public engagement in infrastructure projects like this is key to balancing security with community and environmental concerns, according to stakeholders. Those unable to comment by the deadline may still track the project through CBP updates and future environmental filings.

Originally reported by Heriberto Perez in KVIA.