Currently, Laredo offers three international vehicular bridges into Mexico and awaits the construction of a fourth international bridge. All three bridges connect to major thoroughfares allowing for the expeditious movement of goods between both countries. Both the Lincoln-Juarez and the "Gateway to the Americas" bridges are located near US 81, US 83, IH-35 and the newly constructed State loop 20, while the Laredo-Colombia Solidarity Bridge is located near FM 255 and FM 1472. The proposed fourth International Bridge will be located North of the Laredo-Colombia Solidarity bridge, also connecting with FM 255 and FM 1472.
The Laredo Bridge System supports an impressive annual increase in vehicles and pedestrians traveling northbound.
The City of Laredo also transports goods via its existing rail bridge into Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. This bridge is utilized by two railroad companies, the TEX-MEX Railroad and the Union-Pacific Railroad. A Presidential Permit has already been secured for the construction of a second international rail bridge into Tamaulipas.
The increase in bridge traffic between Mexico and Laredo is expected to continue as a result of NAFTA. The northern frontier of Mexico has a developing and expanding base in the twin plants or maquiladora industry.
The establishment of air cargo facilities at the Laredo International Airport continue to enhance air cargo opportunities in Laredo. Laredo International Airport ranks #7 among U.S. airports handling air cargo into Latin America. During 1994, Foreign Trade Zone No. 94 experienced a substantial amount of growth with respect to its operations and the number of firms utilizing the Zone. In 1994, local trade handling companies such as air cargo companies, railroads, U.S. Customs House Brokers, Trucking Companies and Freight Forwarders totaled over 600. As of 1995, this figure increased to over 800 local companies. Although the functions are different, many U.S. Customs House Brokers are also Freight Forwarders.
The Laredo International Airport is in the process of finalizing construction on over 200,000 square feet of air cargo and aviation related facilities on the North and South side of the Airport. These facilities are state-of-the-art buildings which are located in a modern airpark complex serving the commercial, industrial and warehousing needs of the community. In addition, the facilities will provide present and future Foreign Trade Zone Users the opportunity to access the air operations area of the airport.