Gateway International Bridge

Gateway International Bridge is a pedestrian-only bridge that crosses the Rio Grande, connecting downtown Brownsville, Texas with Matamoros in Tamaulipas. The structure carries foot traffic over the river, with parking facilities and border control stations on each side.

The bridge opened in 1926, marking the beginning of organized border crossing between Texas and Mexico. Throughout the 20th century it underwent repeated renovations and was eventually converted to pedestrian-only use in 1999.

The bridge connects two neighboring communities whose residents move freely between the two sides for work, shopping, and visiting family. Visitors observe everyday life in motion, with people crossing regularly as part of their normal daily routine.

The bridge is open 24 hours daily and allows pedestrians free access to shops and attractions on both sides. It is important to bring identification documents as border controls are required on both sides.

Since its conversion in 1999, the bridge has become the busiest pedestrian border crossing in the region, processing thousands of people daily. This high volume offers insight into the reality of everyday cross-border movement between the two nations.