CBP changed the Big Bend Project 5 route

CBP has changed the proposed route for Big Bend Project 5 without public notice.

Shumla’s September 22 GIS review found the route moved closer to the Rio Grande west of Eagle Nest Canyon and closer to Highway 90 in other areas. The route now runs much closer to Panther Cave and Rattlesnake Canyon.

Panther Cave, located in Seminole Canyon State Park and Historic Site, contains a world-renowned mural extending more than 200 feet with hundreds of painted images. Rattlesnake Canyon houses 5 rock art sites that span a quarter mile, including an extensive mural complex with more than 350 painted figures.

The revised route places approximately 64,908 acres on the river side of the barrier, an increase of 2,208 acres. Shumla identified 410 known archaeological sites on the river side, including 78 rock art sites. Additionally, 108 known archaeological sites lie within 500 yards of the route, including 33 rock art sites.

This project also carries an enormous cost to taxpayers. Before committing public funds to infrastructure that could cause lasting damage, DHS and CBP should explain why it is necessary and show that lower-impact options would not meet the security need.

We need your help again.

Please contact the officials with authority over the project. Demand an immediate pause on construction, surveying, property access, and approvals for Big Bend Project 5. Before work proceeds, DHS and CBP must publicly explain the route change, demonstrate the operational need and justify the enormous taxpayer expense, consult affected landowners and Tribal communities, assess the impacts, and evaluate less damaging security options.

Visit Shumla.org to use our letter template and contact tools. Then share this update with your community.

The route keeps changing. Our response must keep pace.