San Angelo’s Boom: No Interstate, But a Can-Do Spirit Drives Growth

In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie interviewed San Angelo Mayor Tom Thompson about the city's "can-do" spirit and ambitious economic development initiatives. Mayor Thompson discussed how strategic planning and performance-based incentives are transforming San Angelo into a competitive destination for large-scale industry and infrastructure projects. A key highlight is the potential arrival of a third-generation data center valued between $7 billion and $12 billion, which would generate massive tax revenue without straining public services. The city uses 380 agreements to ensure projects are performance-based, protecting taxpayers while funding green spaces, parks, and roads.

Transportation is a major focus, as San Angelo is the largest town in Texas without an interstate. The Ports to Plains and I-14 corridor projects aim to create a diagonal commerce route from Mexico to Canada, relieving congestion on I-35. The San Angelo Regional Airport is expanding, bolstered by Angelo State University's flight program and international training partnerships with the Canadian Air Force. Water security is another priority, with a reclamation project on the Concho River designed to reduce daily groundwater reliance by 40-60% through reuse, ensuring resilience regardless of rainfall patterns.

Education and talent retention are also crucial. With over 10,000 students at Angelo State University and a nationally recognized cybersecurity program, the city is focused on keeping local talent. The synergy between ASU, Goodfellow Air Force Base, and recent FBI investments creates a robust ecosystem for engineering and intel-based careers. Mayor Thompson emphasized that economic development subsidizes improvements that move the city forward, making San Angelo a "can-do" city ready for growth. For the full interview, visit the Building Texas Show Youtube channel.