Photo of Greg Bulla in Unsplash
In a new phase of border security reinforcement, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under the direction of Kristi Noem, announced that the entire wall along the border with Mexico will be painted matte black as a deterrent strategy. The measure—an idea promoted by President Trump—seeks to increase the surface temperature of the metal structure, making it more uncomfortable to the touch and, therefore, more difficult to climb.
During a visit to a section of the wall in New Mexico, Noem shared that the black coating will absorb more heat, making it difficult to climb on sunny days. Additionally, this coating will help prevent the metal from rusting.
The initiative is part of a broader government strategy that includes accelerated construction of new sections of the wall—approximately half a mile per day—and the deployment of technologies such as cameras and sensors. Funding is available from the budget package approved by Congress, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which provides for a $1T4T46.5 billion allocation for border infrastructure, including the wall.
Although details of the specific cost of the painting were not disclosed, media outlets such as The Daily Beast They estimate around $1.2 million per mile, which could translate into a total expenditure of approximately $500 million if the entire existing wall is painted.
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