NextDecade's liquefied natural gas plant in Brownsville showcases economic impact and job creation, STMA highlights

During the recent meeting of the South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA), NextDecade's investment in constructing a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at the Port of Brownsville, Texas, took center stage. The project is set to create up to 5,000 jobs, involves an investment of $18.4 billion, and is poised to have a significant impact across Rio South Texas.

Paul Bruner, Senior Vice President of Operations at NextDecade, shared insights into the project, which commenced in July 2023. The development involves the construction of three liquefaction trains, slated for completion by early 2029.

The new Rio Grande LNG plant will have a clearly defined process for the production and global export of gas. Bruner emphasized that this is the largest energy project in U.S. history and is already under construction, with several phases planned. He highlighted the support received for development, studies, and the LNG distribution chain up to exportation.

Addressing health and safety protocols, accident prevention measures, and environmental considerations, Charles Cappelo, Project Manager at NextDecade, fielded questions from attendees regarding production, job creation, and future prospects in the energy industry.

Mike Willis, CEO of STMA, underscored the regional benefits of the new gas plant, bringing new capabilities and dynamism to the business landscape. He provided updates on employment, manufacturing sector production, occupation, and announced the arrival of new businesses, maintaining a positive outlook for the remainder of the year.

Attendees included directors and members of Economic Development Corporations (EDCs) from cities such as Pharr, San Benito, Weslaco, Brownsville, and Mission, along with executives from the Council for Economic Progress in South Texas (Costep).

During their interventions, Julia L. Landrum, Community Development and Marketing Manager at San Benito EDC, discussed the availability of industrial land and new projects. Steven M. Valdez, CEO of Weslaco EDC, shared news about a new UPS warehouse coming to the city in the following months, and Rick Carrera, Director of Economic Development at Costep, highlighted efforts to attract new investments along the entire Mexico-U.S. border.