Nearly four months after U.S. officials said the price of a border fast pass would drop temporarily from $122.25 to $42.25, the price remains the same, raising questions whether the proposed reduction will be implemented.

"We are still exploring this as an option," local U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) spokeswoman Jacqueline Wasiluk said.

Wasiluk said it's taking long because the fast-pass program is "federally regulated with oversight by Congress.

"It takes time to ensure that any proposed changes, even if temporary, are thoroughly examined," Wasiluk said in an e-mail response to questions by San Diego Red.com.

The wait for a price reduction has raised concerns about whether it will happen at all.

"It's unfortunate that it has taken so long," said Jason Wells, executive director of the San Ysidro Chamber of Commerce. "CBP has done decent work keeping SENTRI waits down."

SENTRI is the acronym for the fast-pass program at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa Ports of Entry and other major land ports that allow pre-screened motorists and pedestrians to use special lanes to expedite their crossing. Cars are inspected and applicants must pass background checks.

The program helps ease traffic congestion but it is still not widely utilized. About 28 percent of motorists and just 2 percent of pedestrians who cross the San Ysidro Port of Entry use SENTRI, according to CBP.

In January, then San Ysidro Port Director Chris Maston shared the SENTRI price reduction plan with a binational committee of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. He was particularly concerned about increasing the use of SENTRI by pedestrians.

"I don't think anybody should have to stand in line for two hours unless they're at Disneyland and choose to do so," he said. Maston in March was named San Diego director of field operations for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Wells said he continues to hear from interested SENTRI pass seekers asking if he knows when CBP is going to lower the price.

"We're telling them that officially we don't even know if there will be a (price reduction). I don't want to keep people waiting," Wells said.

Wasiluk said CBP is also pursuing other ways to increase SENTRI enrollment, pointing to the recent opening of a SENTRI office in San Ysidro.

An appointment is necessary to schedule an interview for completion of the enrollment process or for a renewal appointment at the San Ysidro location.

Walk-ins are welcome at the San Ysidro location, Wasiluk said "if they are just starting the application process for SENTRI, and either need Internet access or assistance with the application process."

The center, at 795 B East San Ysidro Blvd., is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Leonel.sanchez@sandiegored.com