DHS Seeks Firms to Repair Border Fence
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By Stew Magnuson and Matthew Rusling
The Department of Homeland Security is seeking contractors to repair and maintain fences along the U.S.-Mexico border, officials said.
The project to upgrade fencing began in 2005 as part of the Secure Border Initiative — a multiyear, multibillion-dollar program employing sensors and cameras. The project is managed by Customs and Border Protection, a department within DHS.
CBP Spokesman Michael Reilly said damaged roads and bridges at Arizona fence points need repairs, as they have been hit by seasonal rains. Contractors are needed to clear debris scattered by strong winds and heavy vegetation growing on parts of the barrier. Electric and drainage systems and lighting on nearby roads also require repair, Reilly said.
Reilly declined to disclose bidders’ identity, the contracts’ value and the award dates. The department is currently reviewing feedback from a recent industry day, he said.
Meanwhile, the 140 miles of fencing erected before Oct. 31 have cost far more than what was budgeted — an average of $3.9 million per mile. That is nearly $1 million more than original estimates, a Government Accountability Office report found.
DHS spokesman Lloyd Easterling said initial estimates were only meant for 70 miles of fence and not intended for subsequent fencing.
The final price tag remains unknown until all the segments are completed and contracts with private companies are closed out, he said.
Fencing along the Southwest border currently measures 613 miles, he said. That is 57 miles short of the Bush administration’s goal of 670 miles.