Large port expansion could bring major change to Nogales

The federal government is considering a major expansion of the DeConcini port of entry in Nogales. The crossing currently has 11 vehicle lanes, but the proposal could increase that to as many as 22 vehicle lanes and 16 pedestrian lanes.

The port handles thousands of people traveling by car and on foot, but officials say it is too small and has flooding issues. The project would also provide more space for inspecting vehicles and pedestrians. Faster crossings could bring more Mexican shoppers into downtown Nogales and send more visitors north on Interstate 19 toward Tucson and Phoenix.

The expansion would require a larger footprint downtown and could affect homes, businesses and parking lots. The Morley Avenue business district is not expected to be affected. At a public information meeting, residents also raised concerns about protecting historic buildings, preserving the area’s pedestrian character and ensuring the new lanes are properly staffed.

The project’s environmental review could take about a year and a half. Construction funding has not yet been secured, and the total cost could reach several billion dollars.