New Rail Line Aims to Ease Texas-Mexico Border Congestion
Published Date: 4/24/2026
Notice
Summary
Green Eagle Railroad, LLC is getting the green light to build and run a new 1.3-mile double-track rail line in Maverick County, Texas, to help move trains and trucks around Eagle Pass more smoothly. This new route will connect the U.S.-Mexico border bridge to Union Pacific’s rail line, easing traffic and boosting cross-border trade. The project cleared environmental reviews and is set to start soon, promising faster, safer travel without big costs to the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
1.3-Mile Double-Track Line Approved
If you run a business that ships goods, the Surface Transportation Board granted Green Eagle Railroad permission to build and operate approximately 1.335 miles of new double-tracked rail in Maverick County, Texas. The Board approved the project on April 24, 2026, subject to environmental mitigation measures, and the Line is intended to connect the U.S.-Mexico bridge to Union Pacific to ease cross-border freight movement.
Fewer At-Grade Crossings; Local Safety Gains
If you live or travel in Eagle Pass, Texas, the project would reroute freight out of downtown and eliminate delays at the nine public at-grade crossings in the city. The Final EIS (issued August 6, 2025) found the Southern Rail Alternative would eliminate existing severe noise impacts for 1,980 receptors and would cause severe noise at three receptors unless OEA's recommended noise mitigations (like installing additional barriers) are implemented.
Dispute Over Shipping Cost Effects
Rail carriers disagree about shipping costs: Union Pacific told the Board the Line could raise transportation costs by adding a third carrier and increasing complexity, while Green Eagle Railroad says any impact on shippers would be negligible and could be offset by grants. The Board concluded shipper protections under 10901 were not needed based on the record and GER's representations.
Customs Inspections and Fewer Border Stops
Green Eagle Railroad says it will provide equipment to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Mexico's ANAM for non-intrusive inspections and intends to use international train crews to limit train stops at the border. These measures are intended to allow continuous movement across the border and speed cross-border rail operations.
Environmental Protections and Mitigations Required
The Board approved the Line subject to the Final Environmental Impact Statement and environmental mitigation measures (Final EIS issued August 6, 2025). Mitigations include coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for listed species (e.g., Texas hornshell and Mexican fawnsfoot), archaeological surveys before Bridge pier construction, and recommended noise barriers to avoid severe noise impacts.
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