Improving the transportation infrastructure around the Nogales, Ariz., port of entry and beyond seems to be a never-ending project for the Arizona Department of Transportation, and it’s wholeheartedly supported by the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
ADOT says its work on Interstate 19 currently includes intelligent transportation system improvements between Nogales and Tucson, Ariz., including message boards and wrong-way detection, explains Saul Macias, FPAA communications coordinator.
Other southern Arizona work continues to focus on freight mobility and corridor reliability.
“That matters directly to produce because speed, visibility and predictability are critical for perishables moving north,” Macias says.
FPAA also is supporting a grant proposal in Nogales that would improve the interchanges serving the Rio Rico Industrial Park.
Summit Set
In other news from FPAA, the association’s 2026 Spring Policy Summit is scheduled for May 6 in Tubac, Ariz.
“The summit is designed to connect produce industry leaders with policymakers, agency officials and key stakeholders for discussion around trade, border operations, infrastructure, inspections and the broader regulatory environment impacting fresh produce,” Macias says.
“Given the amount of policy uncertainty facing the industry right now, we see the event as an important forum for keeping members informed and engaged,” he adds.
