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New San Diego Border Wall Under Construction, Includes ‘Anti-Climbing Plate’

REUTERS/Mike Blake

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A key segment of the planned border wall between the United States and Mexico began construction on Friday in San Diego, about a half mile from the Pacific Ocean.

The segment is set to replace around 14 miles of scrap metal improvised border fencing and will reportedly be between 18 to 30 feet high. It’s also expected to include an “anti-climbing plate,” according to local news affiliate Fox 8. (RELATED: Migrants From Central American Caravan Caught Scaling The Border Fences)

“The construction of this new substantial wall will improve overall border security, the safety and effectiveness of Border Patrol agents, the safety of the public, and will enhance the atmosphere for business and commerce in the area,” said Rodney Scott, chief of Customs and Border Patrol for the San Diego area.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s acting Deputy Commissioner Ronald Vitiello told Fox 8 that the build is an “important milestone” in securing the border. (RELATED: Zinke: We Need A Border Wall To Protect The Environment)

“Under this President’s leadership, we have a renewed commitment to secure our border,” said Vitiello. “The new primary wall-project represents an important milestone in our work to secure the international border. Not only does it significantly upgrade our existing infrastructure in San Diego, it also marks the third concurrent wall project in the U.S. and reflects CBP’s unwavering commitment to secure our borders and protect our Nation.”

The construction will be managed by Texas-based construction company SLSCO and is expected to cost $147 million.

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