Calexico Pedestrian Land Port of Entry
The Calexico Pedestrian Land Port of Entry (LPOE) is a gateway for travelers moving across the international border between Mexicali and Calexico. Designed to process pedestrian traffic efficiently and humanely, this project balances the dual roles of a secure facility and a welcoming gateway.
A palette of locally sourced materials creates a functionally robust building that captures elements of the surrounding landscape. Rather than creating a grand portal, the project introduces a simple flow through the border crossing that minimizes division rather than emphasizing it.
This project focuses on improving the experience for all users, from travelers to customs agents and border patrol staff. The building processes an average of 7,574 pedestrians daily, with the human-centric design facilitating efficient movement through clear spaces that prioritize accessibility and smooth traffic flow. Features like shaded waiting areas, seating, a family restroom, a medical holding room, and a nursing room ensure comfort and inclusivity.
Located just east of the Union Pacific Railroad, the building connects to the existing vehicular port and administrative facilities via a tunnel. This integration enhances operational efficiency and provides seamless connectivity for travelers. Strategic wayfinding elements and exterior windows help orient users.
The Calexico Pedestrian Land Port of Entry transforms the experience of crossing the border by prioritizing both security and humanity. The facility not only meets the functional demands of a busy port of entry but also creates a dignified, welcoming environment for all users.
By incorporating sustainable materials and passive cooling techniques, the project addresses environmental challenges and reduces its carbon footprint, setting a new standard for public infrastructure. This facility exemplifies how functional design can translate to a solution relevant to its community context, ultimately redefining what a border crossing can be.
The project is shaped by its environment, with exterior walls designed to welcome both people and daylight. Natural finishes and warm tones extend from the exterior to the interior, creating a seamless transition throughout the space.
Skylights brighten secure rooms and corridors, enhancing the sense of openness. The layout organizes public, staff, and secure areas in three distinct zones, all on ground level to maximize natural light. The solid walls and unified roof create a strong civic presence, while layered planting and stone walls in the landscape mirror the building’s structure.
