Construction Begins On Border Wall Prototypes

SAN DIEGO, CA – Construction began Tuesday on prototypes for a new border wall between the United States and Mexico, marking the start of a proposed project that served as a highly divisive centerpiece in President Donald Trump's ascension to the White House.

Groundbreaking in Otay Mesa for eight proposed versions of the barrier -- four made of concrete, the others from unspecified alternate materials -- took place Tuesday morning, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Each structure will be between 18 and 30 feet tall and designed to deter illegal crossings, according to the federal agency.

"We are committed to securing our border, and that includes constructing border walls," CBP acting Deputy Commissioner Ronald Vitiello said. "Our multi-pronged strategy to ensure the safety and security of the American people includes barriers, infrastructure, technology and people. Moving forward with the prototypes enables us to continue to incorporate all the tools necessary to secure our border."

Completion of the structures is expected within about 30 days, according to federal officials.

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By City News Service

Photo: Newer and older sections of the U.S.-Mexico border fence climb a hill on Oct. 3, 2013 near San Diego, California. Photo by John Moore/Getty Images