The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the federal government has awarded 10 construction contracts worth $4.5 billion to expand the border wall system. The contracts will add 230 miles of new barrier along the southwest border with Mexico.
The expansion will be part of a “Smart Wall” system, which includes steel barriers, patrol roads, lighting, cameras, and advanced detection technology to strengthen border security.
According to DHS and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), seven of the 10 contracts were awarded to BCCG Joint Venture in September.
“The Smart Wall means more miles of barriers, more technology, and more capability for our agents on the ground. This is how you take control of the border,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott.
DHS Secretary Kristin Noem issued two waivers to speed up construction — covering nine miles in San Diego Sector and 30 miles in New Mexico’s El Paso Sector. These waivers aim to cut through regulatory delays and allow faster construction of the Smart Wall.
The new barriers are part of a larger border security strategy that combines physical infrastructure with modern surveillance systems to improve response and control.
