RAPISCAN Vehicle Gantry System Implementation at Chaparral Port.



• The Chaparral port in San Ysidro is set to integrate the advanced RAPISCAN vehicle gantry system.
• RAPISCAN, a security, and screening solutions company, specializing in services for both government and private enterprises, is spearheading the project.
• 6 initial gantries will feature cutting-edge Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) technology.
• This technology enhances the inspection process without physically intruding into the vehicles, ensuring efficient and effective screening.
• Project is being spearheaded by the Mexican National Customs Agency (ANAM).
• Implementation should maximize much needed lane optimization on southbound lanes into Mexico.
• 45,000 vehicles travel each day through this Port of Entry.

Regular updates will be shared to keep stakeholders informed and prepared for the upcoming deployment of the RAPISCAN system at the Chaparral Port.

On this note, ANAM is currently conducting a feasibility study to re-open the old Puerta Mexico access, which will provide an additional traffic release valve into Tijuana.

Otay Mesa CHP Inspection Facility launches third weight scale.

• Established in May 1996, the Otay Mesa CHP Inspection Facility has recently inaugurated a much needed third weigh scale.
• This third lane also opened up the FREE PASS corridor, allowing additional trucks to bypass weight scales.
• The addition aims to enhance efficiency and expedite the flow of cargo trucks and alleviates a crucial bottleneck which affects the entire cargo network on both sides of the border.
• Up to 4,000 trucks can use the CHP facility any given day.
• Commander Victor Garcia is oversees this operation.
• Trade numbers in Otay Mesa reached over $60 billion (imports and exports) in 2022, placing in the top 20 ports for imports (including land, air and seaports) in the USA.



These enhancements not only streamline operations at the inspection facility but also have positive implications for regional traffic, industry competitiveness, and is crucial for employment generation in our vulnerable trucking industry.

SBC Farewell Reception for Ambassador Carlos Gonzalez Gutierrez.

On Wednesday, January 17th, the Smart Border Coalition organized a heartfelt farewell ceremony at UCSD Park and Market to bid farewell to Consul General Carlos Gonzalez Gutierrez as he embarks on his new assignment to lead the Consulate in Los Angeles. The event brought together more than 120 attendees to express their gratitude for Consul Gonzalez's impactful service. As he takes on this new role, the Smart Border Coalition extends its warmest wishes to Consul Carlos Gonzalez, hoping for continued success and fulfillment in his endeavors.

The event included proclamations by Mayor Todd Gloria, San Diego County Chairwoman Nora Vargas and Senator Steve Padilla.

The event was sponsored by: VESTA, SENTRE Partners, ABC Aluminio, SEMPRA Infrastructure, Baker & Mckenzie and G-Global Logistics.

The Otay Mesa Port of Entry turns 40 & receives a $134 million facelift.

Opened in 1983, the Otay Mesa Port of Entry has played a pivotal role in cargo movement, emerging as the 3rd most important commercial port in the United States. Processing over 12 million border crossings in 2023, 6 million vehicles and averaging 3,700 trucks per day, it stands as the key hub for trade in our region.

Recently, the GSA completed a much-needed "face lift," including:

• Additional cargo lanes
• Doubling capacity at the pedestrian crossing
• New Trusted Traveler Program building.

The port is effectively managed by Director Rosa Hernandez.

Please see news article here

Read GSA Press Release here

• This graphic illustrates the transformative journey of border crossings since the conclusion of the pandemic. While there has been a commendable recovery, the data underscores that our local ports are currently operating at 12.3% below the pre-pandemic levels of 2019.

• 2023 statistics reveal that our local ports of entry witnessed 50 million border crossings, showcasing a notable resurgence. However, this figure still falls short of the 56 million recorded in 2019.

Smart Border Coalition - Stakeholder Working Group Meeting

Thursday, February 29th (9AM - 11AM)

San Diego Foundation (Liberty Station offices)

2508 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106