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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 14, 2026Hillsborough

Department of Homeland Security constructs border barriers and infrastructure in Big Bend National Park

The Department of Homeland Security is building 17 miles of vehicle barriers, patrol roads, and surveillance systems inside Big Bend National Park as part of a broader $7 billion border security initiative. The agency has waived compliance with environmental laws, including the Endangered Species Act, to expedite the construction of these projects.

border securitynational parksenvironmental protectionpublic landinfrastructure
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — News

Why It Matters

Construction activities are altering 800,000 acres of protected national park land, impacting local ecosystems and public access while bypassing standard environmental review processes.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Homeland Security is installing 17 miles of 4-to-6 foot vehicle barriers inside Big Bend National Park.
  • Construction includes patrol roads, cameras, sensors, and lighting systems.
  • The project is part of a broader initiative funded by $46.5 billion from the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act'.
  • The specific border projects near and inside the park cost more than $7 billion.
  • The Department of Homeland Security has waived compliance with the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act for these projects.
  • Customs and Border Patrol statistics indicate approximately 1% of nationwide illegal border crossings occur in this area.
  • The project includes 200 miles of border wall construction, primarily located just outside the park boundaries.

Who's Mentioned

otherEndangered Species Act“Environmental law waived for the construction projects.”organizationDepartment of Homeland Security“The federal agency overseeing the border barrier construction and environmental ”personBob Krumenaker“Former superintendent of Big Bend National Park.”locationBig Bend National Park“The site of the border security construction projects.”