Traffic delays continue after roof collapse at World Trade Bridge

LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) – It has been more than 48 hours since Mexican customs authorities reported a roof collapse at the World Trade Bridge, disrupting commercial traffic and causing significant delays.

On Sunday morning, September 15, officials announced that the roof on the Mexican side of the World Trade Bridge had collapsed, halting all commercial traffic. The collapse has resulted in minimal tractor-trailer activity at the bridge.

Luis Felipe Vergara, a truck driver affected by the incident, said, “It’s generating delays.” He added, “It takes two to three hours to cross right now, and we have to reroute through the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge because no imports are passing through the bridge.”

The disruption has serious economic implications, potentially halting billions of dollars in trade as business owners scramble to adjust their routes. Rick Laurel, chair of Laredo’s Port Entry Advisory Committee, noted, “They are facilitating only certain lanes at the Colombia Bridge for World Trade Bridge operations. It’s not 100% for World Trade, only certain lanes.”

Customs and Border Protection are responding by moving personnel to the Colombia Bridge to manage the increased traffic. On Monday morning, September 16, Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor Trevino met with Mexican authorities and customs officials to discuss repair plans and alternative routes.

Dr. Trevino stated, “We are willing to provide support in any way we can, like providing lighting, saws, and any other equipment they might need.” He assured that once repairs are completed, lanes will be cleared for truckers to resume crossing into Mexico.

The mayor hopes the situation will be resolved within the next 72 to 96 hours. As of now, authorities have not reported any injuries related to the collapse.

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