The federal government plans to install 536 miles of floating barriers on the Rio Grande as a measure to deter migrants, sparking significant pushback from local residents and scientists. Many South Texas residents are voicing their opposition to the buoy project, expressing fears that the installation could exacerbate flooding in the Laredo area. City officials and concerned citizens raised issues related to flood risks associated with both the proposed barriers and the border wall during a recent city council meeting, highlighting the potential impact on local neighborhoods. As the federal initiative moves forward, Laredoans remain apprehensive about how these developments could affect their homes and the environment.