Biden cancels Trump’s wall but quietly fills half the gaps.

The Biden Administration Quietly Fills Gaps in Southern Border Wall

The Biden administration has taken steps to fill in small portions of unfenced areas on the southern border, reversing its initial decision to halt Trump-era wall projects. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently halfway through filling in 129 gaps in border wall projects, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

While the move has not been widely publicized, it represents a shift in the White House’s approach to border security. Rather than completely abandoning wall construction, the administration has recognized the need to address certain gaps and environmental concerns.

Progress and Funding

Dozens of gaps have already been filled across Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas, where former President Donald Trump had installed over 450 miles of steel wall. However, a significant portion of the 2,000-mile boundary remains open.

The DHS has authorized the completion of multiple remediation activities, including the closure of 129 gates and gaps. Of these, 68 have already been completed, with an additional 50 expected to be finished by September 30, 2023. The remaining 11 are projected to be completed in Fiscal Year 2024.

The funding for these gap projects comes from leftover money from the Trump wall projects. The exact number of miles covered by these projects has not been disclosed by the Biden administration.

A Change in Approach

When President Biden took office, he immediately halted all wall construction to assess its necessity. After conducting studies in 2021 and 2022, the administration determined that certain gaps needed to be filled and environmental concerns addressed. However, the process of resuming construction was slow to start.

Critics argue that there was no legitimate justification for the delay in construction, as it had been duly appropriated and should have been completed by now. Nevertheless, the Biden administration has taken steps to rectify the situation by utilizing remaining funds from the Trump wall projects.

Impact and Future Plans

The filling of these gaps does not come close to matching the 300 miles of new barrier that was not installed. However, it represents a commitment to addressing border security concerns. The remaining funds will be used for various infrastructure projects, such as installing gates, completing drainage systems, and stabilizing slopes.

Local officials and lawmakers have expressed both support and opposition to the fill-in projects. While some see it as a necessary step to address the border crisis, others argue that the focus should be on environmental damage and removing divisive walls.

The Biden administration’s approach to border security continues to evolve, and the progress made in filling these gaps is just one aspect of a larger strategy. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the administration will navigate the complex issues surrounding the southern border.