The Brazos Island Harbor (BIH) Channel Improvement Project is deep draft navigation project designed to deepen the existing ship channel near Brownsville, Texas, enhancing maritime access from the Gulf of America to the Port of Brownsville.
Located at the U.S.-Mexico border, the project will increase the depth of the entrance and jetty channels from 44 feet to 54 feet, and the main channel from 42 feet to 52 feet. This expansion will allow larger vessels carrying heavier cargo to access the port, supporting both regional economic development and national infrastructure priorities.
Designated in June 2019 as one of only four nationwide Public-Private Partnership (P3) pilot projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, BIH is setting a precedent in modern infrastructure delivery. The P3 model enables faster project completion, reduces federal costs, and brings private investment and expertise into public works. The BIH project meets all core P3 criteria, including exceeding a $50 million construction cost threshold, involving a non-federal sponsor, and integrating design, build, and finance elements. It also supports revenue generation and leverages non-federal funding sources to achieve cost-effective delivery.
The project scope includes deepening the channel by an additional 10 feet, dredging of berthing areas, improving dredged material placement sites, and installing updated navigation aids. In addition, the Port of Brownsville is also expected to invest an additional $50M in related landside port improvements
This project will significantly impact the Rio Grande Valley’s economic landscape by improving cargo throughput, reducing vessel transit times, and increasing safety. It enhances the nation’s export capabilities and strengthens energy infrastructure by facilitating the movement of natural gas and other energy resources. Additionally, it will support the national transition to clean energy by improving access to key wind and renewable energy components.
By increasing trade, supporting job creation, and encouraging sustainable development, the BIH Channel Improvement Project contributes to long-term regional resilience and economic equity.
Latest update:
The project is funded to completion with Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act (IIJA) funds. Phase 2 dredging began in November 2024, with a groundbreaking ceremony held in December 2024 to commemorate the start of work on the second phase of the project. Current activities include completing new work dredging of the channel with scheduled completion during FY2026. Construction of placement areas is complete.