Border Sentri Cards

Yuma, Arizona October 19, 2011 - Public and private sector leaders in Yuma County say border delays cost jobs, revenue and tax monies.

"In this economy, it is absolutely necessary that we maintain the ability to move back and forth through that border fairly quickly, but, at the same time, maintain the necessary security levels that are required," says Ken Rosevear, Executive Director of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce.

Both sectors say moving people and goods faster through the border benefits both the U.S. and Mexico. They say new enhancements at the San Luis Port of Entry's SENTRI lane drastically cuts border wait times.

"This year, as opposed to last year, there was an 18-minute reduction in the average wait time per hour," says Will Brooks, the Director for the San Luis Port of Entry. "At the same time, there is about 800 more vehicles a day going through the Port of Entry. Pretty good return for us on investment."

The local leaders hope more Yuma County residents apply for a SENTRI card to speed up border travel. So far, over 8,000 residents have applied.

"We're very pleased and proud to be a part of this collaboration because we see it as an ultimate benefit for employers, job seekers and the overall economy of Yuma County," says John Morales, Executive Director of the Yuma Private Industry Council.

Many local businesses depend on Mexican workers who commute daily to the U.S.

"We're very, very reliant upon migrant workers from across the border and anything to speed up the process of coming across the border to help us in our fields is greatly appreciated," says Kyle Smith, Sales Director for JB Farms.

Yuma County leaders also say even infrequent travelers to Mexico can enjoy expedited travel through a SENTRI lane. For under $125, the SENTRI card is good for five years.

"We're all going to benefit in the end because of job circulation and the movement of goods and people will, of course, improve our economy," says Julie Engel, President of the Greater Yuma Economic Development Council.

Anyone needing help applying for the SENTRI card can attend the SENTRI Application Fair next Monday, October 31st from 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Fernando Padilla Community Center in San Luis.