The New Mexico Border Authority on Sept. 9 presented its annual report in Socorro, led by newly appointed Executive Director Gerardo Fierro. The event primarily focused on underlining the NMBA’s goals and future projects.
Fierro’s presentation started by detailing the NMBA’s specific actions for the fiscal year, emphasizing economic growth, expediting trade, leveraging the state’s strategic location and enhancing collaboration with economic partners. He also highlighted efforts to promote the creation of jobs along the border region.
“As the new executive director of the New Mexico Border Authority, my commitment is to build on the agency’s momentum and strengthen its role as a catalyst for economic growth and quality of life improvements in the border region,” Fierro said.
In a significant project update, Fierro announced that phases A and B of the feasibility study had been completed in collaboration with the New Mexico Department of Transportation.
An environmental study, phase C, is currently underway, while preparations for phase D, which focuses on preliminary design, are also in progress. Fierro said that additional funding had been secured for another phase of the project that will determine the best connection point to Texas and the interstate highway system.
Within the annual report, Fierro noted how important legislative changes are for strengthening the NMBA’s operational capabilities. Recent legislative efforts aimed at improving the NMBA’s functionality were showcased in proposed bills, such as HB 13 and HB 307, which seek to modify the Border Development Act, introduce new membership requirements and clarify the agency’s structure.
Fierro said he has a future-focused strategy for the NMBA.
“In the next years, we aim to enhance infrastructure development initiatives and deepen our cross-border partnerships,” he said. “Together, we will seize opportunities, overcome obstacles and create a legacy of progress and prosperity for generations to come.”
