Shipping containers, those big metal boxes used for moving goods around the world, have always been important for international trade. They used to just help with shipping products between countries. But now, people are finding new and creative uses for them. Architects and engineers are turning them into things like bridges, cool hotels, and homes that are good for the environment.
Recently, double-stacked containers have also been used to build the controversial border wall between Arizona and Mexico, an initiative by Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. This new use has sparked a lot of discussions. It highlights the versatility of shipping containers, but it also raises complex issues surrounding border security and immigration.
The Need for a Border Wall
The concept of creating a wall between the US and Mexico has been discussed for a long time. Supporters believe it will reduce undocumented immigration and drug smuggling. But critics think it contradicts American principles and won’t solve these problems.
Even with the debate, work on the wall in Arizona has been happening since 2019. To save money and make building faster, shipping containers are now being used as a main building material.
Arizona Shipping Container Border Wall
Right now, over 2 miles of Arizona Mexico border have been made from shipping containers, with a plan to extend it to 34 miles. The containers are stacked and filled with concrete to make them strong.
This way of building is liked because it saves money and is fast. Shipping containers are easy to get and move to where they need to be, which helps avoid extra costs and waiting.
Even though it might seem strange to use shipping containers for a wall, they work well. These strong metal boxes can handle bad weather, which is great for the tough conditions of the Arizona desert.
Controversy Surrounding Arizona Border Wall Shipping Containers
Using shipping containers to build the makeshift border wall has faced backlash despite its benefits. Critics say it’s a short-term fix that doesn’t tackle the main issues of illegal immigration and drug smuggling. They also point out that this building method is not transparent and lacks proper checks, making it hard to ensure the wall is built well.
Transforming Shipping Containers from a Makeshift Border Wall Into Functional Homes
Shipping containers once used at Arizona’s border to block entry are now being transformed into homes. A religious group in Tucson, Arizona, named Wholistic Transformation, is converting these containers into housing for young adults exiting foster care.
Former Governor Doug Ducey had installed thousands of these containers along the Arizona-Mexico border as a barrier but was forced to remove them in December 2022 after a lawsuit by the U.S. Department of Justice. The federal government argued the barrier was illegal, dangerous, and disrupted federal activities.
Conclusion
Using shipping containers to build the Arizona border wall has caused mixed feelings. It might be a cheaper way to build the wall, but there are worries about how well it will work and its effect on immigration rules. We need to wait and see if using shipping containers is a smart move for the Arizona border wall or if we have to look for other options.
We should keep an eye on how this debated project goes. Meanwhile, shipping containers are showing they can be used in many ways across different fields, highlighting their ability to bring new ideas and creativity. Whether it’s for trade across the world or building things, these metal boxes are becoming a big part of our lives and changing how we build and live.
On-Site Storage Solutions
This demonstrates that shipping containers, regardless of the issue at hand, can be utilized in a variety of ways, showcasing their durability and versatility. At On-Site Storage Solutions, we pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality containers.
We have a selection of both new and used shipping containers readily available for you. Contact us today at (888) 4058772 to learn more about our shipping container options and how we can help you find the perfect solution for your needs.
