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Getting there is a snap. The major access which leads directly
to the International Bridge is FM 1015 "The Borderland Express." This
crosses US Expressway 83 on the Eastern edge of Weslaco, Texas. Take
the turn south and proceed 5 miles until you come to the bridge.
You
can either drive across or you can park and walk. There are
two large paved parking lots located to the east (left) or west
(right) side of the street. Parking is $1.50 per day and
your car should be safe. Lock up and be sure any valuables
are out of sight.
Walking is quite easy across the new Progreso International Bridge,
which is the only bridge on the border anywhere that provides a broad
covered walkway on both sides. There are even benches where
you can take a break and view the scenery and catch your breath. The
cost of crossing is a quarter each and you drop your money in the
turnstile and head on through. Don't worry, over a million
people a year make this trek without problems.

A group of happy border crossers are shown walking four abreast
under the protection of the cover. |
Looking
west we can see the plaque marking the US -Mexico border
with a Border Patrol boat in the Rio Grande. |
Driving is a bit pricier. Currently, the charge is $2.00 going
and about the same returning. If you are taking a number of
folks, it might work out to be a better option. It will also
give you a means to bring back some of the fine stuff you'll find
in the many shops and stores in Nuevo Progreso. Parking is
available free on the street and parking attendents will assist you
in and out. There are also some free guarded lots available
at restaurants who expect you to get your parking ticket punched
in their restaurant or bar or pay a nominal fee. There are
also some lots on the side street to the West (right) where you can
park for about $2.00. See the map. Another million or
so cars make the trip each year, and with the new four-lane bridge,
it's a snap.
If you choose to drive you should be aware that
you are crossing into another country. The streets are
very busy and crowded, especially on the weekends, so be careful. It
is advisable to have Mexican auto insurance, as American issued
policies are not recognized in Mexico. This insurance
is available from insurance companies on the U.S. side, and
is absolutely essential if you intend to go into the interior
of Mexico. Having a wreck without Mexican coverage will
assure you a visit to the local jail, even if you have full
coverage on your car. You probably will be okay in Progreso
and there are very few accidents there. Those that occur
are usually taken care of by your insurance, but it's a hassle. |
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