WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus S. King, Jr. (I-ME) this week toured the state-of-the-art Van Buren Port of Entry facility, which when completed in June, will connect Maine to St. Leonard, New Brunswick. A joint venture between U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), the new facility will replace the existing port of entry that sustained significant damage when the St. John River flooded in 2008. Its design features several major upgrades, including better inspection conduits for both large and small vehicles, improved gates and perimeter fencing, and enhanced security measures, as well as environmental-friendly qualities like geothermal heating and cooling and a rooftop solar hot water system that has helped to garner the recognition of the US Green Building Council.

“It was a pleasure to visit and tour the new and incredibly impressive Van Buren Port of Entry facility,” Senator King said. “I applaud the CBP and the GSA for their collaborative effort in designing and constructing this state-of-the-art facility. Not only will it enhance our nation’s border security, but it will also encourage and welcome cross-border relationships and trade – and all in an environmentally friendly way. This new Port of Entry will surely set the standard for every border crossing station to come.” 

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