From John T. Kennedy, executive director, the Presidio Municipal Development District
PRESIDIO — On February 20, the Presidio Municipal Development District (PMDD) brought together local, state and federal officials, along with binational infrastructure leaders, to discuss the future of the Presidio-Ojinaga International Bridge. The event featured a walk with key stakeholders, followed by presentations on financing, tolling operations, and regional economic opportunities.
The morning session included a site walk of the Presidio-Ojinaga International Bridge, led by PMDD Executive Director John T. Kennedy and Presidio County Judge Joe Portillo Jr.; Caroline Mays, director of planning and modal programs at the Texas Department of Transportation; Alvaro Esparza, representative for Caminos y Puentes Federales (CAPUFE); and Benito Reyes Jr., director of the Presidio Port of Entry. Representatives of the Presidio International Port Authority (PIPA) were also present, underscoring the importance of collaborative governance in advancing the bridge project.
This meeting, organized by PMDD, focused on the bridge study, which is being conducted with the support of the North American Development Bank, PMDD and Presidio County. Discussions centered on governance and financing options, with consideration of the best strategies for long-term sustainability.
At the PMDD office, the group gathered for a working lunch, with additional participants, including Mexican Consul Gamaliel Bustillos Muñoz, joining the conversation. Consultants Phil Eshelman and Dr. Michael Bomba provided insights into the operations and revenue potential of the toll system, while Jesse Hereford, director of partnerships at the North American Development Bank, shared funding opportunities for infrastructure projects.
Kennedy opened the session by emphasizing the importance of bringing stakeholders together to assess the future of the international bridge, noting that, “This meeting represents the collaborative effort needed to secure the region’s economic future. Working with leaders at all levels, we can lay the foundation for a thriving, sustainable economy.”
Eshelman and Bomba discussed aspects of the toll system, focusing on planning and financial modeling. Eshelman highlighted the importance of right-sizing infrastructure and governance, while Bomba emphasized the need for tailored solutions for the region’s unique border dynamics.
“The Presidio-Ojinaga International Bridge is more than a transportation corridor — it is an economic lifeline for our region,” Kennedy said. “We are taking critical steps toward bridging Presidio’s future through strategic infrastructure investment, binational cooperation, and economic development.”
“We are pleased to award funds from the NADBank’s Technical Assistance Program, which will help provide valuable information for Presidio County to consider the operations and maintenance of the international bridge should they acquire it,” said Jesse Hereford, head of Strategic Partnerships at NADBank. “This study will determine if owning the bridge is feasible for the county. Finally, I’d like to commend the judge and commissioners court for trying to help bring economic development to the southern part of the county anchored by the International Bridge.”
In a statement about the collective progress, Presidio County Judge Portillo remarked, “Right now, I feel like we are all moving toward the same goal — this includes the city, the county, and our local businesses, importers and exporters. We are working closely with Mexico, with Ojinaga, as well as with local elected officials and state leaders from Chihuahua. Together, we recognize the opportunity to be a part of the success we’ve seen across Texas, and we are committed to ensuring that Presidio is part of that success.”
Tim Tarver, CEO of Exceed Geo Energy, made a presentation emphasizing Presidio’s potential as a hub for geothermal energy and how this could complement the region’s infrastructure development. His remarks recognized Presidio’s position to lead in renewable energy development, which will support local and regional growth.
The event reinforced PMDD’s commitment to advancing sustainable development, enhancing cross-border trade, and fostering new economic opportunities for the Presidio region.
