International Bridges

The following aspects must be accounted for when planning an international bridge:
  • The Texas Transportation Commission must approve an international bridge application.
  • A Presidential Permit must be acquired.
  • The International Boundary and Water Commission must approve the project.
  • Coordination is necessary with Mexican governmental agencies, designers, and contractors.
Section 201.612 of the Texas Transportation Code requires an entity authorized to construct or finance the construction of an international bridge over the Rio Grande to obtain approval from the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) prior to seeking a Presidential Permit for construction. Title 43 TAC, Sections 15.70-15.76, specifies the process by which applicants submit an application.
In order to comply with the rules requiring approval by the Texas Transportation Commission of an international bridge prior to requesting a Presidential Permit and to provide the 120-day response time required by legislation, TxDOT has designated the Transportation Planning and Programming Division (TPP) as the department liaison for international bridge applications.