Homeland Security OKs rush order on border wall replacement in Arizona

PHOENIX – Construction can begin immediately to replace 26 miles of border wall in Arizona, the Department of Homeland Security announced Friday.

The agency issued a waiver Wednesday to push forward work on the pedestrian wall in the Yuma Sector, according to a press release. The move is not related to President Donald Trump’s national emergency declaration.

Part of the project will begin near the San Luis Port of Entry and extend east for 2.5 miles past border monument 198 near the Imperial Sand Dunes.

The statement said, “While the waiver eliminates DHS’ obligation to comply with various laws with respect to covered projects, DHS remains committed to environmental stewardship.”

The bollard wall would “impede and deny illegal border crossings.”

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