Currently american citizens may either apply for a work-permit online or in-person on arrival to CA. Just last month one could apply at any land crossing, now it is only at airports. Will the process change substantially before 2026 starts?

Substantial changes include the closure of one of the permit application methods, large changes to required documentation, or a change in fees by more than 10%. I reserve the right to make a judgement call on other kinds of changes.