In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie sat down with San Angelo Mayor Tom Thompson to discuss the “can-do” spirit driving economic development in this West Texas hub. Mayor Thompson detailed how strategic planning and performance-based incentives are positioning San Angelo as a competitive destination for large-scale industry and infrastructure projects.
Potentia Revenue Innovation through Data Centers
Mayor Thompson highlighted the transformative potential of a third-generation data center currently being considered for the region. Valued between $7 billion and $12 billion, such a facility would provide a massive surge in tax revenue without the public safety or infrastructure strain typically associated with residential growth.
“Economic development really subsidizes all the improvements that move your city forward,” said Mayor Thompson. He noted that the city utilizes 380 agreements to ensure these projects are performance-based, protecting taxpayers while funding green spaces, parks, and roads.
Transportation: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
San Angelo is currently the largest town in Texas without an interstate, a status the Mayor is working to change through the Ports to Plains and I-14 corridor projects. This 20-to-30-year vision aims to create a diagonal commerce route from Mexico to Canada, providing critical relief for the congested I-35 corridor. Additionally, the San Angelo Regional Airport is expanding, supported by the Angelo State University (ASU) flight program and international training partnerships with the Canadian Air Force.
Securing the Future of Water
Recognizing that “water is economic development,” the city is aggressively pursuing a reclamation project on the Concho River. This initiative aims to reduce daily groundwater reliance by 40-60% through reuse, ensuring the city remains resilient regardless of rainfall patterns.
“San Angelo is a can-do city. People are ready and willing to make the investment to move forward. Economic development provides the revenue to subsidize those improvements,” Thomson added regarding the City’s outlook on growth and economic development.
Education and Talent Retention
With over 10,000 students at ASU and a nationally recognized cybersecurity program, San Angelo is focused on keeping talent local. The synergy between the university, Goodfellow Air Force Base, and recent investments by the FBI creates a robust ecosystem for engineering and intel-based careers.
For the full intereview with Mayor Thompson, visit the Building Texas Show Youtube channel:
The Texas City With No Interstate – And It’s BOOMING | Mayor Tom Thompson
About San Angelo, Texas:
San Angelo is a city of 100,000 residents serving as the commercial and cultural beacon of West Texas. Home to Angelo State University and Goodfellow Air Force Base, the city balances its rich ranching heritage with modern innovation in cybersecurity, aviation, and renewable energy.
About The Building Texas Show:
Hosted by Justin McKenzie, The Building Texas Show delivers in-depth conversations with leaders and innovators driving growth across the Lone Star State. From economic development to community storytelling, the show highlights the projects shaping Texas’s future. Learn more at BuildingTexasShow.com
Media Contact:
Justin McKenzie
Email Contact
210-748-2312
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