Tucson, Ariz. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection is making a technology upgrade and construction has begun at the Port of San Luis, Arizona. A non-intrusive, Z- Portal drive-through inspection imaging system capable of scanning passenger vehicles rapidly for security threats and contraband is being installed in the vehicle secondary lot.
Travelers are advised to plan their trips during periods of lighter traffic or use an alternate port such Andrade, Calif. Travelers can find up-to-date wait time information on the CBP.gov website or download the Border Wait Time app on a tablet or smartphone.
“In the future, the Z- Portal will help facilitate those crossing the border,” said John Schwamm, area port director. “This non-intrusive technology is part of CBPs strategic layered defense and is an efficient means of detecting security threats. It’s safe for both passengers and vehicles,and we’re looking forward to putting it to use.”
The Z-Portal produces multi-view images that show changes in density, alerting officers to the potential presence of hidden stowaways, narcotics, merchandise, and other concealed threats. This technology will assist CBP officers in preventing contraband, including illegal drugs and terrorist weapons, from entering the United States, facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel.
Additionally, the Z-Portal will reduce the risks faced by CBP officers when physically dismantling vehicles suspected of carrying concealed contraband and items that may pose a threat. For more information about this technology, refer to the attached Z-Portal Fact Sheet or visit NII Factsheet.
Construction began Tuesday and expected to be completed in early May of 2018.
If you are a frequent international traveler and have not already become a member of a trusted traveler program, sign up now. For more information, please visit the Trusted Traveler section of the CBP website.
