Trump's border wall deal you can't refuse

Axios
by Brittany Gibson
April 23, 2026
4 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

The Trump administration is pressuring Texas landowners to cooperate with border wall construction or face eminent domain.

How This Affects You

If you are a landowner in Redford, Texas, the government may acquire your property for border wall construction, potentially cutting off homes or cemeteries.

AI Summary

The Trump administration delivered a message to landowners in Redford, Texas, on Tuesday, stating they must cooperate on border wall construction or it will proceed anyway. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been mailing packets offering $1,000 to $5,000 for initial access, sometimes with inaccurate survey lines or owner information. This pressure is leading to rushed work, infuriating local residents, ranchers, and the tourism industry in west Texas. Construction companies plan to start work in June, coinciding with the rainy season, to meet a goal of finishing by December 2027. Landowners like Yolanda Alvarado face proposals that would cut off family homes and cemeteries, raising concerns about safety and property access.

What's Being Done

Construction companies plan to start border wall work in June to meet a December 2027 completion goal.

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