"One of the more interesting phenomenon to be observed in Mexico in recent years is their quite obvious efforts to make the place look like the US."
I don't know about that but where I live in Southern California, it is looking more and more like a Mexican third world country! And I wouldn't try to make a silk purse out of sow's ear if I were you, Mexico is awash with corrupt government employees "on the take."
They look remarkably Americanized ~ and, of course, they should. However, I've also seen TJ City at different times over the last 5 decades and the place looks positively American these days. Way back when it looked Mexican.