Bridge traffic mixed in FY25; Gateway modernization in 2026 may require toll plaza demolition

Cameron County staff presented the Cameron County International Bridge System fourth‑quarter (unaudited) report to the Commissioners Court on Nov. 4 and summarized traffic and revenue trends for FY25.

The presentation reported a 14% increase in passenger vehicles at the Gateway Bridge, producing a 23% increase in revenues for that classification; pedestrian traffic grew modestly. At the Free Trade Bridge, passenger vehicle traffic fell by 13% (a 7% revenue decrease), while commercial vehicle traffic rose 47% (12% revenue increase). Traffic across the system rose about 18%, translating to a 20% increase in revenue for commercial traffic. The overall system finished about 1% below budgeted revenues, translating to a $250,000 shortfall versus the adopted budget, but the presenter described the year as largely successful despite border pressures.

"So, we will have to demolish our toll gantry, our toll plaza, and eventually our administrative building as well," said Pete, a representative of the Cameron County International Bridge System, describing the expected impacts of the U.S. General Services Administration's Gateway modernization project slated to begin in 2026. County staff said they were negotiating with GSA to minimize closures and that any necessary shutdowns would be limited in duration and presented to the court for approval once final plans are available.

Commissioners asked about timing, lane closures and projected impacts; staff said GSA planned to minimize disruption and the county would review and approve demolition or closure plans when presented.

The court moved to acknowledge the report.