DHS Plans 24 Miles Of Border Wall, Rio Grande Buoys In Zapata; Laredo-Area Leaders Push Back

DHS is moving to build more than 24 miles of new border barrier in Zapata County and install floating buoys along the Rio Grande, triggering coordinated opposition from residents, Indigenous leaders, and local officials in the Laredo sector. Speakers warn of threats to water access, river ecology, and cultural sites, citing past eminent domain battles and a 2021 cancellation of Laredo-sector wall contracts. Community leaders are calling for regional unity and rigorous environmental and cultural reviews as DHS reportedly prepares to issue new contracts before year’s end.