In an exercise of authority befitting the highest office in the land, the President of the United States has granted Green Corridors, LLC (hereafter referred to as the “Permittee”) the green light to embark on a rather ambitious infrastructure project: the construction, maintenance, and operation of an elevated guideway system at the U.S.-Mexico border in Laredo, Texas. This project, detailed in the “Presidential Permit Application: Green Corridors Intelligent Freight Transportation System,” submitted on October 3, 2024, and supplemented on February 14, 2025, is aimed at enhancing the logistics of freight transportation across the border, all under the auspices of 33 U.S.C. 535d and associated regulations.
The term “Border facilities,” as defined in this permit, encompasses an elevated guideway and a bridge that gracefully spans the Rio Grande, linking inland terminals situated near Monterrey, Mexico, and alongside Interstate 35, just north of Laredo, Texas. This intricate infrastructure will reside just downstream from the Laredo-Colombia Solidarity International Bridge, marking a significant connection point between Texas State Highway 255 and Nuevo Leon State Highway Spur 1.
This permit is not without its conditions, which could easily rival a contract for a high-stakes film production:
Article 1. The Permittee must adhere strictly to the terms outlined in this permit and any future amendments, ensuring that the construction and operation of the Border facilities align with the Application’s descriptions.
Article 2. The construction, maintenance, and operation of the Border facilities will be subject to oversight by representatives from relevant Federal, State, and local agencies. The Permittee is obliged to grant these officials unfettered access as they perform their duties.
Article 3. Compliance with all applicable Federal laws and regulations regarding the construction and operation of these facilities is a must for the Permittee.
Article 4. The Permittee is tasked with taking all necessary measures to mitigate any adverse impacts on the human environment during the lifecycle of the project. This includes a promise to hold the United States harmless against any liabilities that may arise from environmental issues linked to the project. Furthermore, the Permittee must secure all necessary permits and approvals before construction begins, complying with the National Environmental Policy Act and other environmental regulations.
Article 5. In the event of any transfer of control over the Border facilities, the Permittee must promptly notify the President or their designee, seeking approval for such changes. The President holds the authority to approve or deny such requests, along with the ability to impose additional conditions as deemed necessary.
Article 6. The Permittee is responsible for securing and maintaining any required right-of-way grants, easements, and permits that may be deemed necessary for the safe operation of the Border facilities.
Article 7. In alignment with existing Donation Acceptance Agreements, the Permittee is to provide necessary inspection facilities and improvements at no cost to the United States, although this does not obligate agencies to provide a specific level of service.
Article 8. Prior to commencing design activities, the Permittee must outline plans detailing funding and delivery for various operational aspects, ensuring that U.S. Customs and Border Protection can adequately implement inspection procedures.
Agencies will collaborate with the Permittee to refine these conditions within one year of permit issuance.
Article 9. Before construction can commence, the Permittee must obtain agreement from the United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commissions.
Article 10. Construction will not begin until the Department of State has completed its diplomatic exchanges with the Government of Mexico regarding authorization.
Article 11. The Permittee must provide relevant information to the President or their designee upon request, which may relate to various operational aspects of the Border facilities.
Article 12. Compliance with statements and reports as required by Federal law is obligatory for the Permittee.
Article 13. Any substantial changes to the Border facilities must receive Presidential approval, and the Permittee’s obligations under this permit are contingent on available funding. If the Green Corridors Intelligent Freight Transportation System ceases to function as an international crossing, the permit shall terminate, allowing the Permittee to manage the facilities according to applicable authorities.
Article 14. This permit will expire five years from the issuance date if construction has not begun by that time.
Article 15. Lastly, it’s crucial to note that this permit does not establish any enforceable rights or benefits against the United States or its entities.
In testimony whereof, I affix my signature this 9th day of June in the year two thousand twenty-five, marking the two hundred forty-ninth year of American independence.
DONALD J. TRUMP
