Read more: Local, Economy, Anzalduas Bridge, Mexico, Mission, Hidalgo County, Open to Public, Mayor Cortez, Ron Kirk, Norberto Salinas, President Calderon, Rio Grande Valley, Mexico
MISSION -- It opened on December 15th and while traffic has already christened the new Anzalduas International Bridge everything came to a halt on Monday.
This after Mexican President Felipe Calderon, U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk, and other dignitaries officially opened the new bridge.
Monday, both countries united to show that the relationship between the United States and Mexico is what will help both countries continue to prosper.
"You knew that a new crossing would bring benefits to this entire region and those benefits begin today," said Ron Kirk.
For McAllen Mayor, Richard Cortez, utilizing this new bridge is the next step.
"Now that we have this valuable asset let's not waste it by not utilizing it," said Cortez. "For us to be able to compete in this global economy our nation needs not just one bridge but a system of bridges so we can become the most efficient region where companies want to relocate."
Mission Mayor, Norberto Salinas said Mission is now the first stop once someone crosses the border and he hopes this new traffic will help the city continue to grow.
"We saw Mission grow when we knew the bridge was coming," said Salinas. "Now that we have the bridge we're going to have more growth in the city."
While all of this traffic is great for the U.S. it also does not hurt our neighbors to the South who will also benefit from the new infrastructure.
"The bridge signifies more spending and commerce for Mexico," said Mexican president Felipe Calderon.
