Raba-Kistner's experienced professionals specialize in coordinating with Bi-national parties to prepare Presidential Permit applications.

Highways, roads, railroads, pipelines, and telecommunications all cross the 2000 mile long border that the United States shares with México. Every international crossing, and in many instances, a change to an existing international crossing requires a Presidential Permit coordinated with and issued by the U. S. State Department.

In Raba-Kistner's experience, the key to a successful Presidential Permit application is early involvement of the approving agencies. Permit applications often require a long lead time, multiple visits with regulating officials in both countries, and presentations to the annual meeting of the Bi-National Commission on Bridges and Border Crossings.

Utilizing our extensive network of contacts, Raba-Kistner works with our clients to prepare and submit an application for a Presidential Permit including all supporting documentation. We offer policy interpretation, agency liaison and technical services required for the efficient preparation and submittal of the application. Our team ensures policy compliance and works with clients to define the project, organize public meetings, make presentations to the Bi-National Commission on Bridges and Border Crossings, and coordinate between the U.S. and Mexican counterparts.

Recognizing that early coordination is crucial to the decision-making process, Raba-Kistner initiates and manages consultations with federal and state agencies during the scoping phase of a project. Examples of agencies consulted include the General Services Administration, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Interior Fish & Wildlife Service, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, Coast Guard, and the International Boundary and Water Commission.

Environmental documentation is a significant consideration in the State Department's review of Presidential Permits. Raba-Kistner prepares environmental documentation in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), and Executive Order 12898 concerning Environmental Justice.