April 2026 REDnews

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Speed as Strategy: How TexAmericas Center is reframing economic development In most markets, time is the most expensive line item in an industrial deal. At TexAmericas Center, that timeline is the problem they’ve built their entire model to solve.

The Invisible Workforce: How economic developers are shaping Texas growth behind the scenes It’s safe to say Texas doesn’t have a branding problem. Companies are moving in. Industrial demand is relentless. Announcements land almost weekly.

Out of Sync: How Texas industrial markets are starting to diverge Texas’ industrial market is not slowing in any simple statewide way. It is sorting itself out. In DallasFort Worth, tenants are still moving, but product selection has become far more exacting.

Capital flows in industrial: Who’s buying, who’s pausing and who’s targeting niche assets Over the past 24 months, industrial real estate has undergone a quiet but meaningful reshuffling of capital.

Property Taxes in Perspective: Reform Matters, But Elimination isn’t the Answer Few topics spark stronger reactions among property owners than property taxes. In Texas and beyond, recent legislation has worked to better control assessed values.

Scoop/People on the Move

Events: Austin Industrial Summit

Events: Austin Multifamily Summit

2026 Texas Economic Development Guide Special Section.

Speed as Strategy: How TexAmericas Center is reframing economic development

BY BRANDI SMITH

In most markets, time is the most expensive line item in an industrial deal even if it never appears on a balance sheet. Months stretch into years as projects move through permitting, zoning reviews and public approvals, each step adding friction to what is already a capital-intensive process. But at TexAmericas Center, that timeline is the problem they’ve built their entire model to solve.

“Time is the most powerful incentive we can offer,” said Eric Voyles, the center’s Executive Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer.

That philosophy has shaped an operation that doesn’t fit neatly into the

traditional definitions of either an economic development organization or a private developer. TexAmericas operates in the space between those models.

“We’re an amalgamation of a municipality, an economic development organization and a private-sector industrial developer and operator,” Voyles said.

As a state-designated local redevelopment authority, TexAmericas functions much like a municipality, overseeing land use, permitting and infrastructure across its 12,000-acre footprint near Texarkana. At the same time, it operates without taxing authority, generating revenue through land sales,

leases and service offerings. That structure demands operational efficiency more commonly associated with the private sector while maintaining the authority typically reserved for local government.

“Our focus is speed to occupancy,” Voyles said. “Everything we do is designed to help companies become operational faster, generate revenue sooner and reach profitability more quickly at TexAmericas than they could anywhere else.”

In a traditional municipality, a project might move through multiple layers of review including planning departments, zoning committees, public hearings and city council approvals, each introducing the potential for delays or revisions. At TexAmericas, those processes are consolidated under a single authority, eliminating the need for external approvals. In that context, TexAmericas is less an alternative and more a workaround.

“We can eliminate six to 18 months, or more, from a typical site selection timeline,” Voyles said.

The impact is immediate and measurable. Earlier occupancy means earlier production, earlier revenue and, ultimately, a faster path to profitability. For companies navigating rising construction costs and economic uncertainty, that kind of time savings translates directly to financial certainty.

Speed, however, is only part of the equation. TexAmericas has also built a model that allows companies to test a market before committing long-term capital. Through its third-party logistics capabilities, TexAmericas can effectively stand up operations on behalf of a tenant, handling inventory, shipping and even light manufacturing on a contract basis.

“That model allows companies to enter the market, become operational, understand their true cost structure and then decide whether to scale,” Voyles said. “In that case, they chose to expand.”

In one instance, a pipe manufacturing company used that structure to establish a foothold in Texas, ultimately deciding to expand its presence after validating the economics of the market. Often structured with flexible terms, the arrangement removes a layer of uncertainty that can otherwise delay expansion decisions.

Taken together, the combination of speed and flexibility creates a different

kind of value proposition. It shifts the conversation away from traditional incentives and toward reducing both time risk and capital risk.

Momentum is already building at scale. TexAmericas recently became home to what is described as the world’s largest daily lithium processing facility, operated by EnergyX. The company has additional acreage under option and the potential to expand into a project valued between $500 million and $1 billion, depending on future phases of development. Projects at that scale signal more than growth and validate the model.

The site’s infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting that kind of growth. With millions of square feet of existing industrial space, rail service spanning dozens of miles and integrated logistics capabilities, TexAmericas offers a level of operational readiness that aligns with its speed-to-market approach.

The organization is also addressing one of the most pressing constraints facing industrial users today: power. Through partnerships that enable behind-the-meter energy solutions, TexAmericas can support large-scale users requiring significant capacity, while operating within a regulated power market known for reliability.

Water infrastructure is also expanding, with a new system expected to deliver tens of millions of gallons of capacity in the coming years, further positioning the site for high-demand industrial uses.

Still, one of the most compelling aspects of the TexAmericas story isn’t physical infrastructure. It’s labor. While many markets are grappling with workforce shortages, TexAmericas is making a markedly different claim.

“We believe this is one of the last true labor-surplus markets in the country,” Voyles said.

The data behind that assertion points to a broad labor shed extending roughly 75 miles, encompassing more than a million people. Within that radius are tens of thousands of individuals who are either unemployed, underemployed or commuting long distances to jobs in larger metro areas such as Dallas, Little Rock and Shreveport. The takeaway is clear: jobs created in the region are not only filling existing gaps but drawing workers back closer to home.

That dynamic is reinforced by a steady pipeline of graduates from nearby higher education institutions, many of whom currently leave the region in search of opportunity elsewhere. For employers, that combination offers something increasingly rare — both available labor and a renewable talent pipeline.

For developers and investors, the broader message is less about any single advantage and more about how those advantages intersect. Speed reduces time to revenue. Flexibility reduces upfront risk. Infrastructure supports scale. Labor sustains growth. Individually, those elements are not unique. In

combination, they form a model that challenges how economic development is typically structured.

At TexAmericas Center, the pitch isn’t built around incentives packages or tax abatements. It’s built around removing friction. In a market where delays have become standard, that shift may be the advantage that matters most.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

The Invisible Workforce: How economic developers are shaping Texas growth behind the scenes

BY BRANDI SMITH

It’s safe to say Texas doesn’t have a branding problem. Companies are moving in. Industrial demand is relentless. Announcements land almost weekly. From the outside, it can look like momentum is automatic, just a function of population growth, business climate and geography. That perception exists because the people responsible for turning interest into actual deals rarely make headlines. Dane Carlson didn’t set out to spotlight them. He was just trying to stay connected.

“I started the podcast and newsletter in 2021 when everything shut down,” said Carlson. “Conferences disappeared, conversations disappeared and honestly, it got lonely. So I just started reaching out to people, hitting record and publishing what I was learning.”

What began as a way to fill a professional void has since evolved into Econ Dev Show, a podcast, newsletter and blog that now serves as a steady pulse check on the economic development industry. Carlson, who previously worked in economic development in Houston, now sits at a unique vantage point. Through weekly conversations with practitioners across the country, he’s built an informal network of insight into how deals actually get done. Across markets, the same patterns keep surfacing, including in Texas.

“What surprised me most is how universal this work is,” Carlson said. “Whether it’s a town of 3,000 or a place like Bermuda, everyone is solving the same problems. The tools might look different, but the mission is the same.”

In Texas, those shared challenges are amplified by scale. The state’s size and pace of growth create both opportunity and sustained pressure for economic development teams across regions. Economic development is not a career most people intentionally pursue.

“Nobody grows up wanting to be an economic developer,” Carlson said. “Everyone finds their way into it. But once they’re in it, they love it. They can’t imagine doing anything else.”

That unlikely entry point often turns into long-term commitment because the work extends far beyond individual deals. The results show up over time in how communities grow and change.

“Economic developers aren’t trying to get rich, they’re trying to make their communities rich,” Carlson said. “And that can mean jobs, quality of life, lower taxes … all the things that actually matter to residents.”

For developers and investors, that broader mission can be easy to miss. Most interactions happen at specific points in a deal, not during the months or years of groundwork that make those moments possible. Much of that coordination, advocacy and preparation happens out of view.

“A lot of investors and developers don’t realize there are people in every city and region whose entire job is to help them succeed,” Carlson said. “And not just help — go out of their way to make projects happen.”

Across Texas, that network is extensive. Cities, counties and regional organizations are constantly positioning themselves for new opportunities, often competing internally while contributing to broader statewide growth. Within major metros, communities may pursue the same project simultaneously, balancing local priorities with regional momentum. At a glance, that momentum can feel inevitable. In practice, it is anything but. Growth may look inevitable from the outside, but it is actively built at the local level.

“Everyone assumes growth in Texas just happens because it’s Texas,” Carlson said. “But every deal, every win, someone is working behind the scenes to make it happen.”

That work is becoming more complex as new types of demand emerge. Data centers, in particular, have introduced a new layer of urgency and uncertainty, requiring communities to assess infrastructure, power capacity and land availability in real time.

“We’re all reacting to things like data centers in real time,” Carlson said. “Nobody had a playbook for that, and now everyone’s sprinting to figure it out.”

For economic developers, responding quickly has become as important as responding accurately. Timelines have compressed. Information gaps can shift attention elsewhere. The ability to deliver clear, complete data early in the process can determine whether a site remains competitive.

Carlson saw it firsthand in his own work, particularly in the industrial sector, where responding to requests for information can shape the trajectory of a deal. Communities are often working with incomplete data, scattered records or manual processes while trying to compete against regions that can respond in hours, not days. That gap can quietly determine which sites advance and which are eliminated early.

After working through those challenges firsthand, Carlson built Sitehunt, a platform that automates industrial real estate research so economic developers can respond to site selection inquiries in minutes instead of days.. The concept is straightforward, but the stakes are high. Communities that can organize their data and respond quickly are better positioned to compete. Those that cannot risk falling behind, regardless of underlying fundamentals. For developers and investors, that responsiveness often translates into clearer decision-making and reduced friction in the early stages of a project.

Carlson’s work with Econ Dev Show has made that dynamic more visible, not by reframing the industry, but by documenting it. The conversations reveal a field defined less by individual wins and more by sustained, often unseen effort.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

Out of Sync: How Texas industrial markets are starting to diverge

BY BRANDI SMITH

Texas’ industrial market is not slowing in any simple statewide way. It is sorting itself out. In Dallas-Fort Worth, tenants are still moving, but product selection has become far more exacting. In Houston, demand is holding up even as a heavy wave of new deliveries keeps pressure on vacancy. In Austin, new space has arrived faster than the market can absorb it and landlords have not fully adjusted their expectations. So the state still has growth, relocations and a business climate that keeps occupiers interested. What it does not have is one unifying industrial story anymore.

“We’re seeing a pick up in leasing activity,” said Allen Gump, executive vice president at Colliers’ Dallas office. “In particular we’ve handled some businesses from outside DFW that are landing here. Also, landlords in many instances we’ve seen are ready to deal, both renewals and new deals. We’ve had a significant number of large deals happen and the inventory of million SF deals is very low. There are quite a few new ones that are going to be breaking ground soon.”

Across the market, newer institutional-owned warehouses in the 150,000-square-foot to 250,000-square-foot range have become more common, with roughly 140 options available across DFW based on a recent CoStar search. CBRE’s 2026 DFW outlook also notes that bulk demand remains strong while small-to-midsize demand has moderated, with manufacturing accounting for 35.3% of leases above 100,000 square feet in Q3 2025.

“We’re seeing a clear shift from smaller, infill properties to larger bulk spaces, particularly those of 500,000 square feet or more,” said Max Mueller, senior director of development for VanTrust Real Estate in Dallas. “Over the past few quarters, infill product surged amid limited supply, strong demand and significant rent growth. That dynamic has since reversed. Developers concentrated on smaller products, creating oversupply, while larger bulk space was underbuilt. Today, much of that inventory has been absorbed and is now undersupplied, driven by evolving tenant demand.”

That makes DFW feel less like a market in retreat than a market getting stricter. CBRE reported that demand for big-box facilities has cooled enough that only nine projects of 500,000 square feet or more were under construction in Q3 2025, down from 20 completions in 2024 and one completion in 2025, while preleasing for new construction rose to 40%. Owners are also beginning to use modest free rent and tenant improvement allowances to hold face rates. In other words, activity is still there, but the easy assumptions are gone.

“The disconnect mirrors that shift,” Mueller said. “Supply and demand for large bulk space versus smaller infill products have essentially flipped. Pricing followed suit. Rents for 500,000-plus-square-foot product have risen sharply, even over the past 60 days, while rents for smaller product have plateaued or, in some cases, declined.”

Houston is working through a different kind of pressure. Leasing activity remains active, but a large wave of recent deliveries is still moving through

the market with new space competing for tenants across expanding logistics corridors.

“Seems that tenant leverage is showing back up, but only on commodity product,” said John Nicholson, vice chairman at CBRE’s Houston office. “Class A, well-located space with modern specs is still tight and landlords know it. The shift is that occupiers are finally slowing down — deals that used to close in 60 days are now taking 120-plus days. Companies that panicked into longer-term leases in 2021-2022 aren't making that mistake again. That discipline is real, and it's reshaping how we negotiate.”

Newer buildings continue to draw tenants looking for modern specifications, while older inventory faces longer marketing timelines. Large-format space is taking more time to stabilize, and leasing velocity has slowed as tenants weigh decisions more carefully.

“Tenants have options now and won't pay the previous year's pricing,” Nicholson said of 50,000-150,000 SF spaces in certain submarkets. “That gap is exactly where deals are dying. If you're a tenant in that size range, this is your window to push hard.”

The risk in Houston is not just timing or product mix.

“The Southeast submarket and Ship Channel are still being underwritten on pre-tariff assumptions,” Nicholson said. “A significant chunk of that demand base — importers, 3PLs, freight-dependent users — is directly exposed to trade flow disruption. If import volumes pull back, that corridor feels it first. Most people aren't recognizing this and they should be.”

Austin is the outlier because the issue is timing. Vacancy has climbed to nearly 20% citywide as new supply hits the market, even as tenant requirements continue to grow in size and infrastructure needs. That shift is being driven largely by advanced manufacturing and defense users, alongside a steady pipeline of new projects across Central Texas, including major expansions and new industrial parks in Georgetown, San Marcos and Northeast Austin.

“While search activity appears robust with substantial multi-market interest, this surface-level demand may not accurately reflect genuine absorption potential in Austin,” said Zane Cole, senior managing director at JLL Austin. “Nevertheless, this perceived demand has encouraged landlords to maintain aggressive pricing expectations, creating the market's most significant disconnect today.”

Available space has increased, but pricing has not moved in parallel. Asking rents and concessions have remained relatively stable, creating a gap between what landlords expect and what tenants are able to underwrite.

“Beyond the absorption concerns mentioned above, affordability poses a significant risk—particularly for local and regional companies whose leases are expiring after 5-7 years into a substantially different pricing environment,” Cole said.

Mueller put a name to what links these markets.

“The risk is the industry’s tendency toward herd mentality, which drives cyclical over- and undersupply across product types,” Mueller said. “Additionally, the operating environment is evolving quickly. Tenant mix and industry demand are shifting—while 3PLs drove much of the leasing activity last year, that may no longer hold by the end of 2026. Developers will need to stay flexible and adapt to these changing dynamics.”

That feels like the real statewide takeaway. Texas still has the same advantages everyone cites: in-migration, infrastructure, relocations and a business climate that continues to attract occupiers. Gump even argued that, so long as the national economy holds up, Texas should keep benefiting from businesses leaving states that have become harder to operate in. But those advantages are no longer smoothing over bad assumptions. Markets are getting more precise. Space has to match the user, timing has to match the demand cycle and pricing has to reflect what tenants will actually absorb. The state is still building. It is just no longer forgiving.

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Capital flows in industrial: Who’s buying, who’s pausing and who’s targeting niche assets

BY KEVIN CARLSON, CLEAR HEIGHT PROPERTIES

Over the past 24 months, industrial real estate has undergone a quiet but meaningful reshuffling of capital. While headline narratives have focused on interest rates, development slowdowns, and bid-ask spreads, the more interesting story has been where capital is still flowing, and why.

Industrial is not a monolith. Capital behavior today varies sharply by unit size, lease profile, and operational complexity. Within the larger industrial spectrum, development has remained difficult to capitalize over the past 24-36 months due to the inventory oversupply which was delivered as a response to COVID-era demand for local warehousing space. The resulting underperformance of large box warehouse & logistics product has turned institutional investor attention to another vertical, light industrial. Light industrial, defined in this context as single and multi-tenant properties with <50,000 square foot units with a mix of grade-level and dock high loading.

Who’s Buying: Institutions Lean Into Mark-to-Market

Despite broader market uncertainty, institutional capital has remained active in industrial, particularly core+ and value-add funds that can underwrite operational upside rather than rely on cap rate compression.

The common thread among today’s buyers is a focus on embedded mark-tomarket rent growth, especially in multi-tenant industrial portfolios. Years of below-market leases, often the byproduct of fragmented ownership and lack of institutional oversight, have created a durable runway for NOI growth that is less dependent on aggressive leverage or speculative assumptions.

As institutions push to deploy value-add capital, groups are gravitating toward shorter-term WALT, favoring flexibility and the ability to reprice space in a still-tight infill environment. That said, there remains a subset of disciplined capital, often funds later in their lifecycle or single-asset capital stacks, willing to acquire medium-term WALT assets where liquidity is thinner but basis can be compelling. These buyers are not avoiding duration risk; they are being paid for it.

In many respects, this is a more rational market. Capital is underwriting cash flow growth first and financial engineering second.

Who’s Pausing: Capital Is Not Gone - It’s Repositioning

The most visible pause has come from open-ended REITs, many of which are still managing redemptions and rebalancing portfolios. Their reduced acquisition activity is less a statement on industrial fundamentals and more a function of capital structure and liquidity management.

• More consistent debt availability

• Higher leverage levels

• Lower all-in cost of capital

Similarly, closed-end funds between vintages, or those navigating a slower fundraising environment, have stepped back, even when acquisition teams remain active. This pause is structural, not philosophical. The capital is still bullish on industrial; it simply has not yet been reallocated.

Importantly, this pause is occurring alongside a material improvement in the debt environment. Compared to 18–24 months ago, buyers today are seeing:

This has not yet resulted in aggressive asset repricing across the board, but it has narrowed bid-ask spreads and re-enabled transaction velocity for buyers with conviction. In other words, the pause is thawing, selectively.

Who’s Targeting Niche Assets: The Down-Market Shift

Perhaps the most notable shift in capital flows has been the institutional move down-market into light industrial and small-bay product.

Large, closed-end vehicles that historically focused on bulk distribution and Class A development are increasingly acquiring small-bay light industrial directly and/or partnering with experienced local operators to do so. The reason is straightforward: risk has re-priced development.

Higher vacancy, slower leasing velocity, and capital-intensive buildouts have made speculative bulk development a less attractive deployment channel, particularly late in the cycle. In contrast, infill small-bay industrial has proven resilient, with diversified tenant bases, steady demand, and strong re-leasing fundamentals even during periods of economic uncertainty. To remain active, many large groups have also shown a willingness to downsize deal size, prioritizing execution & returns over scale optics. This marks a meaningful departure from prior cycles, where institutional capital often avoided smaller transactions due to inefficiency.

What was once viewed as “sub-institutional” is now being recognized as operationally institutional, but manager-dependent.

Why Local Operators Still Matter

As capital crowds into small-bay and light industrial, a familiar truth has resurfaced: execution matters more than ownership size.

Multi-tenant small-bay portfolios are operationally intensive. Leasing velocity, tenant retention, capital allocation, and day-to-day asset management drive outcomes far more than financial structuring alone. Vertically integrated local operators, like Clear Height Properties, with deep market knowledge and hands-on management, continue to be the most effective stewards of these assets.

Institutional capital has taken notice. While large groups increasingly dominate fundraising and influence pricing, many rely on local operating partners to source, execute, and manage these portfolios efficiently. In doing so, pricing for well-located light industrial has shifted from traditional value-add toward core+ valuations, even when business plans still require meaningful execution.

This dynamic has created both opportunity and tension. Returns are being compressed, but risk profiles are improving. The winners will be those who can maintain discipline while operating at institutional standards.

A Market That’s Selective, Not Stalled

Industrial today is not suffering from a lack of capital, with the decline of high basis office investment, there has never been a time when industrial has been more in focus. Despite the need to deploy capital, institutional funds are deploying with greater scrutiny, deeper underwriting, and a renewed emphasis on operational alpha.

For groups like Clear Height Properties, this environment rewards focus. Small-bay, shallow-bay, infill industrial has demonstrated its durability through the cycle, and disciplined acquisition paired with active management continues to attract both capital and tenants.

Looking ahead, the next phase of the industrial market will not be defined by who can raise the most capital, but by who can deploy it thoughtfully. As institutions increasingly target niche assets, the advantage will remain with operators who understand the real estate at the ground level and can translate that knowledge into durable cash flow.

Industrial has matured. The easy money phase is over. What remains is a market that rewards expertise, patience, and execution.

Kevin Carlson is Executive Director of Capital Markets for Clear Height Properties.

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INDUSTRIAL REAL ESTATE

Property Taxes in Perspective: Reform Matters, But Elimination isn’t the Answer

BY RHONDA REYNOLDS, VICE PRESIDENT, LANE PROPERTY TAX ADVOCATES

Few topics spark stronger reactions among property owners than property taxes. In Texas and beyond, recent legislation has worked to better control assessed values — an important step toward keeping commercial and residential property taxes fair, predictable and manageable.

These reforms matter. Property tax bills are often driven more by assessed values than tax rates, and unchecked increases strain budgets fast. Measures aimed at capping assessment growth and improving transparency help protect property owners from sudden spikes that don’t reflect a property’s true market performance.

At the same time, it’s important to consider a broader reality: While property taxes must be accurate and equitable, they also play a vital role in supporting the communities where we live and work. Let’s take a closer look.

What Do Property Taxes Support?

Property taxes are the backbone of local government funding. Unlike many other revenue sources, they tend to be relatively stable year over year, allowing cities, counties and school districts to plan responsibly and maintain essential services. In most communities, they help fund the following.

• Public safety, including police and fire departments

• Roads, bridges and other transportation infrastructure

• Public schools and educational programs

• Libraries, parks and community facilities

• Emergency services and disaster response

• Utilities and local government operations

Because property taxes are tied to real estate, an asset that doesn’t disappear or fluctuate dramatically overnight, they’ve long been considered among the most reliable and efficient ways to fund local services.

The Push to Eliminate Property Taxes

Recently, conversations have emerged around the idea of eliminating property taxes altogether. On the surface, the concept can sound appealing. After all, who wouldn’t want to remove a recurring expense? But the reality is far more complex.

Without property taxes, local governments and school districts would still need to fund essential services. That funding would likely come from a mix of alternative sources, such as expanded local sales taxes on goods and services, income-based taxes on wages (a “state income tax”) or business activity, and increased reliance on service-related fees for utilities, waste collection, road usage or access to public facilities.

Tourism-driven areas might lean more heavily on taxes tied to lodging, dining or short-term rentals, while resource-rich regions could depend on revenue generated from oil, gas or mineral production. In addition, some municipalities could become increasingly reliant on state or federal funding to close budget gaps.

Property Tax Alternatives Can Create Challenges

One of the most significant drawbacks of replacing property taxes is volatility. Income and sales-based taxes rise and fall with economic cycles, often declining during downturns — the precise moment when demand for public services tends to increase.

Equity is another concern. Sales taxes and many user fees are considered regressive, meaning they place a proportionally greater burden on low and middle-income households than on higher-income earners. Property taxes, when assessed accurately, are viewed as a more balanced way to distribute the cost of local services across property owners. Communities may face additional challenges.

• Economic Side Effects: Higher local taxes can influence where businesses choose to locate and residents choose to live

• Limited Flexibility for Taxpayers: A state income tax would apply — and likely increase — annually, leaving no opportunity for review, negotiation or appeal

• Greater Complexity & Cost: Administering income-based taxes across jurisdictions can prove more expensive than property taxes

• Reduced Local Accountability: Reliance on outside sources could mean local officials lose sight of community needs and wants

• Uneven Impacts: Certain areas may be better positioned to generate revenue than others

• Strain on Public Services: This could lead to deferred maintenance or scaled-back offerings

Taken together, these alternative approaches could introduce instability and inequities communities aren’t able to absorb.

Striking the Right Balance

Property taxes play an important role in the modern world, but property owners shouldn’t have to accept inaccurate or inflated assessments. Remember, the goal isn’t higher taxes, but fair taxes. That’s why recent legislative efforts to rein in assessed values are so important, and why property owners should be proactive.

Protesting assessed values annually is one of the most effective ways to ensure an individual isn’t overpaying and that valuations reflect real-world conditions. And because navigating a property tax protest requires more than filing paperwork, working with a professional property tax protest firm is the best way to position a case for success.

Successful appeals are driven by market knowledge, data analysis, deadline management and an understanding of how local appraisal districts operate — all things professional firms deal with each day. When sourcing a firm, here are a few things a property owner should look for.

• Local Expertise: Familiarity with regional markets, legislation and appraisal districts

• Transparent Fee Structures: Clear communication surrounding when and how costs are incurred

• Proven Experience: First-hand knowledge protesting a range of property types and valuation scenarios

• Strong Communication: A property owner should never be left wondering where their protest stands

A trustworthy firm acts as an advocate, not just a processor, to help ensure assessments stay fair year after year.

Moving Forward with Confidence

While property taxes remain a critical funding source for local governments, they must be applied fairly and grounded in reality. Unlike state income taxes, commercial property taxes give owners a clear path to challenge inaccuracies and ensure they’re paying only what’s fair. Recent reforms have also put meaningful guardrails around assessed values, a positive step for property owners and communities.

By staying informed, understanding where tax dollars go and taking action when valuations don’t add up, property owners can protect their financial interests while supporting the services that keep communities strong.

SCOOP/PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

REDnews adds business development executive

Rob Tippler has joined REDnews as business development executive.

Tippler is a former U.S. Army infantry combat veteran. He comes to REDnews from Houston Business Journal, where he worked as a product sales account executive. He also worked for NHST Global Publications where he was the subscription renewal manager for the Americas for its oil, gas and renewable energy publications.

Tippler brings more than 13 years of business development, customer service and sales appointment generation experience to his new position. He attended the Art Institute of Houston, where he majored in applied computer science and multimedia.

Tippler is married and has two children.

Austin’s LV Collective names president and chief investment officer

Austin-based LV Collective promoted Jonathan Reyes to president and Christopher Kott to chief investment officer, reinforcing the company’s leadership team as it continues to expand its national platform.

The promotions reflect LV Collective’s commitment to elevating experienced leaders from within as the company scales its student housing and multifamily businesses. Reyes and Kott have each played a key role in the company’s growth, helping strengthen execution, streamline decision-making and build a more integrated platform across operations, development and investments.

In his new role as president, Reyes will oversee the growth strategy and operations across LV Collective’s platform, leading the company’s core business lines and positioning the organization for continued expansion. Reyes previously served as LV Collective’s president of student housing and has been instrumental in shaping the company’s capital markets strategy, corporate initiatives, operations, investments and asset management.

Houston’s Oxford Partners adds senior vice president

Houston-based Oxford Partners added Kim Hillman as Senior Vice President.

Hillman brings nearly two decades of Commercial Real Estate experience, with a focus on Industrial, Logistics, Land, and Investment sales across major markets, including Southern California and Houston.

Hillman has held leadership roles at firms such as Colliers International, Lee & Associates, and Newmark Grubb Knight Frank. Her background includes representing developers, institutional investors, and owner-users in complex acquisitions, leasing, and development projects. She is licensed in both Texas and California and maintains relationships with national and regional capital sources.

In her new role, Hillman will focus on expanding Oxford Partners’ Industrial presence across the Houston MSA, with particular emphasis on the Port, Baytown, and Grand Parkway corridors. She brings a strong network of investor and developer relationships across key markets.

Houston’s DC Partners names chief executive officer

Houston-based real estate investment and development firm DC Partners appointed Roberto Contreras IV as Chief Executive Officer. This announcement marks a significant milestone for DC Partners as the firm continues to build on its legacy of delivering high-end residential, mixed-use, and hospitality developments, while strategically expanding beyond Texas into key markets across the United States.

Having played a hands-on role in every DC Partners development to date, Contreras brings a deep, project-level understanding to his role as CEO. His leadership reflects a continued commitment to active involvement across the firm’s portfolio, while driving the strategic growth of both the company and its people. Focused on building a best-in-class team,

Contreras is committed to the long-term growth and enhancement in the markets where DC Partners operates.

CBRE adds pair of SVPs to Houston office

CBRE added Jillian Fredericks and Connor Saxe to its Houston Office Investor Leasing team as Senior Vice Presidents. Their combined expertise strengthens one of the market’s leading agency leasing platforms and further enhances CBRE’s capabilities across the region’s office sector.

Fredericks joins CBRE with more than 16 years of commercial real estate experience. She most recently served as Senior Vice President at Colliers, where she helped lease more than 4.1 million square feet of Class A and Class B office properties in The Woodlands. Her background also includes positions at Boxer Property and Landmark Properties.

Saxe brings more than 13 years of strategic agency leasing experience, specializing in Class A office properties and mixed-use urban developments. Prior to joining CBRE, he served as Senior Vice President at Partners Real Estate, where he oversaw leasing and marketing for a 4 million-square-foot portfolio of Class A office assets across Houston. He also previously held roles at Cushman & Wakefield and Colvill Office Properties.

Lee & Associates adds director in Houston office

Lee & Associates announced that Blaine Sinclair has joined the firm as Director in its Houston office.

In this role, Blaine will focus on expanding the firm’s leasing platform and growing the Houston office’s portfolio across the region’s major submarkets. He will represent landlords and investors in strategic leasing

initiatives, providing market-driven solutions designed to enhance occupancy, strengthen asset positioning, and maximize long-term value.

Blaine brings more than 15 years of commercial real estate experience to Lee & Associates. Throughout his career, he has represented Landlord across all major Houston submarkets, advising a diverse range of clients and consistently delivering strong transactional outcomes. He is recognized for his market knowledge, client-focused approach, and ability to execute complex lease negotiations.

Prior to joining Lee & Associates, Blaine was with Jackson Cooksey and Madison Marquette (formerly known as PMRG), where he played an integral role in leasing and portfolio growth initiatives. He also co-founded Z Group, a boutique commercial real estate firm, further expanding his entrepreneurial and leadership experience within the Houston market.

Blaine earned his degree from Texas A&M University, Class of 2012.

“Blaine’s depth of market experience and entrepreneurial background make him a strong addition to our Houston team,” said Chris Lewis, Managing Principal, SIOR. “His proven track record across Houston’s major submarkets and commitment to client service align perfectly with our firm’s strategic growth initiatives.”

JLL makes leadership moves in San Antonio office

JLL made two strategic leadership transitions in its San Antonio office: Jeff Miller has been appointed San Antonio Market Lead and Brian Kates has been chosen to head the firm’s Office Tenant Representation group.

Both Miller and Kates have been with the firm for more than a decade and will apply their extensive knowledge of the industry to their expanded roles, further strengthening JLL’s presence in the San Antonio and South Texas region.

With more than three decades of commercial real estate experience, Jeff Miller is revered for his analytical skills, market knowledge, client service and leadership. He has been recognized for a number of milestone accomplishments, including being named a winner of the San Antonio Business Journal’sBest in Commercial Real Estate Award in 2007, 2011, 2013, 2016, and 2023. In addition to his work in Texas, Miller brings vast national and international business acumen, having managed projects across 34 states and nine countries. Miller is an active member of the San Antonio community, serving as the real estate advisor to Goodwill Industries of San Antonio and to the San Antonio Area Foundation.

Miller will now be the sole San Antonio Market Lead, having previously shared the position with Chuck King and Mark Krenger, who will be stepping into Advisory roles, where they will continue to provide valuable mentorship, guidance and support. In this position,

Miller will spearhead several key initiatives, overseeing business operations and providing strategic counsel.

Brian Kates has been a pivotal contributor to JLL’s office tenant representation group during his tenure with the firm, and his ability to understand client needs has been instrumental to his team’s success. With 13 years of industry experience, Kates has been involved in over 300 completed transactions, working with notable brands such as Jefferson Bank, Wounded Warriors and Texas Dermatology, among others. Additionally, he has been recognized numerous times as one of JLL’s Top Achievers and Gold Achievers.

Clear Height Properties opens Dallas office, names managing director

Clear Height Properties opened its Dallas office and named Russell Webb Managing Director, Texas Acquisitions.

In this role, Webb will spearhead the firm’s acquisition efforts across Texas while supporting the continued expansion of Clear Height’s national industrial investment strategy.

Webb brings extensive experience across acquisitions and asset management, with a proven track record of sourcing, underwriting, and closing industrial transactions. Prior to joining Clear Height, he held senior acquisition roles at STORE Capital and Spirit Realty Capital where he successfully closed over $500M of industrial transactions across the country totaling five million square feet. His background also includes experience at Westmount Realty Capital and UBS Realty Investors.

Webb earned his MBA from Baylor University and holds a BBA in Finance and Entrepreneurship. He is an active member of TREC and NAIOP and is passionate about building long-term partnerships that create sustainable value.

Partners Real Estate adds equity partner to Dallas office

completed more than 1.75 million sq. ft. and 590 acres In transactions worth a total value of $375 million.

Mr. Wong’s addition to Partners’ Dallas office is the latest in a series of strategic wins and highprofile companywide announcements—including JJ Leonard joining Partners to lead its Dallas office—that demonstrate the firm’s longstanding commitment to enhancing the services it offers its clients, and further demonstrates the significant drawing power of Partners’ distinctive business model, platform, and structure, where the professionals who drive value own the firm and share in its full wealth-building potential.

Mr. Wong began his career as a Tax Associate on the Mergers & Acquisitions team at Deloitte & Touche, where he focused on tax implications for company spin offs, sales, mergers & acquisitions. Chris learned about real estate development during his time at Hillwood, where he worked alongside the Corporate Tax team as well as the Perot family. He joined Austin Industries almost 10 years ago, working his way up from Tax Manager to creating Austin’s real estate team directing the company’s real estate decisions, including acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and inhouse property management.

JLL

names

VP to project and development services team in Dallas

JLL added Marti DuBuisson to its Project & Development Services (PDS) team in Dallas as Vice President.

With more than 20 years of workplace interior design experience, DuBuisson brings strong design knowledge and hands-on project leadership across a variety of industries. In her new role, she will manage interior projects and work closely with brokerage teams to help deliver spaces that meet clients’ needs and goals.

Partners Real Estate added multifaceted CRE professional Chris Wong to its Dallas office as an Equity Partner.

Wong comes to Partners after inhabiting a unique dual role as a prolific broker on the industrial and land side of the business with Bradford Commercial Real Estate, as well as Real Estate

and Tax Director at Austin Industries, a leading national construction company. At Partners, Mr. Wong will specialize primarily in building the company’s Industrial Outdoor Storage (IOS) practice in the DallasFt. Worth market—a product type he has consistently ranked among the top-producing brokers, having

Having spent two decades leading interior design projects, DuBuisson’s new role at JLL marks her official transition into project management. Her extensive design background gives her a unique understanding of client needs, bridging the gap between the design team and client’s business objectives. As project manager, DuBuisson will manage timelines, coordinate teams and navigate obstacles while communicating effectively with clients.

During her 15-year tenure at Corgan, DuBuisson successfully led projects for high-profile clients such as Fox, AT&T, Sewell, TRG, Microsoft, Cinemark, Southwest Airlines, NBC, and others. In addition to her design and project management experience, she places a strong emphasis on building valuable relationships and championing the adoption of innovative tools and workflows that improve project delivery.

Austin Industrial Summit

events events

Austin Multifamily Summit

Momentum still building: Number of officeto-apartment conversions continues to soar across the United States

BY DAN RAFTER

Office-to-apartment conversions continue to break records, with 90,300 such conversions in the pipeline across the United States as of the state of 2026, according to the latest research from RentCafe.

The office-to-apartment conversion trend is continuing to gain momentum, too. RentCafe said that this year's figure is up 28% from the 70,600 such conversions in the pipeline as of January of 2025.

It looks, then, as if 2026 will be another record year for office-to-apartment projects.

The numbers tell the story: RentCafe said that office conversions now account for almost half -- 47% -- of all future adaptive reuse projects across the country.

The New York City metropolitan area leads with 16,358 conversions in the backlog, with the Washington D.C. area coming in second place with 8,479 planned office-to-apartment conversions. Chicago pulled up in third place, with 4,360 such conversions in the pipeline at the start of 2026.

Another Midwest market that is seeing strong office-to-apartment conversion activity? Cleveland. RentCafe said that the city ranks ninth in the country for these conversions, with 1,771 planned as of the start of 2026. Also in Ohio, Cincinnati ranked 10th on RentCafe's list with 1,770 planned office-to-apartment conversions.

Dallas also landed in the top 10, with 3,966 office-to-apartment conversions in the planning stages as of the start of the year.

These conversions are a positive for the commercial real estate industry. They help remove outdated, difficult-to-lease office space off the market, replacing it with product that consumers want. The challenge? Conversions can be expensive. And only a limited number of office spaces are a good fit for conversions. They must be in the right location and boast a footprint that doesn't require too much money to convert.

But for properties that qualify for a conversion? Don't be surprised to see developers continuing to turn struggling office space into new multifamily buildings. As RentCafe explains, about one-third of U.S. office loans are set to mature by 2027. This means that many office owners face increasing pressure to act on underperforming properties.

"A massive amount of office building loans -- over $213 billion -- are coming due by the end of 2026," said Doug Ressler, senior analyst and manager of business intelligence with Yardi Matrix, in a written statement. "When

“A massive amount of office building loans -- over $213 billion -- are coming due by the end of 2026.”

loans mature, borrowers need to either pay them off or refinance them. The problem is that many of these office buildings have lost significant value largely due to remote work trends reducing demand."

While conversions are a useful too, they are not a cure-all for the office market. As RentCafe says in its report, conversions can be both costly and lengthy. Nearly 66,500 office-to-apartment conversions that were already underway in early 2025 are still under construction this year.

While office-to-apartment conversions are the most common, they are not the only type of conversions that developers and owners are undertaking. RentCafe said that hotels make up about 18% of future adaptive reuse projects, while industrial properties make up about 16%. Other building types, including healthcare facilities, schools, retail and government buildings, account for about 19%.

“We don't do red tape. We do red carpets.”

The DFW Growth is Moving East. Get In Before Retail Demand Peaks.

Why Lavon is the ultimate ground-floor opportunity for commercial developers and investors.

Let’s cut to the chase: Dallas-Fort Worth is expanding at breakneck speed. If you’re looking for the next major wave of growth, look east to Lavon. With a local population that recently crossed 16,000 – and over 85,000 within a 15-minute drive – this is an economic powerhouse in the making. And they are hungry for retail, dining, and services.

Rooftops First. Retail Follows.

You know the formula, and Lavon is nailing it. We currently have nearly 8,000 residential lots in active development. Massive master-planned communities like the 1,600-acre Elevon project are rapidly transforming the map. The workforce is already here. The consumers are already here.

Traffic That Drives Revenue

SH 78 is pumping nearly 50,000 vehicles a day (a 15% jump in just one year). SH 205 has 26,000 vehicles daily

Smart money like Spec’s,

The workforce is already here. The consumers are already here.

AutoZone, and Integrity Urgent Care have already planted flags. McDonald’s and Cold Stone are on the way.

Yet, the market remains largely untapped. Lavon boasts 478 acres of zoned commercial land.

Building a Future-Ready Economy

We aren't just building a bedroom community. An 86-acre data center project is already underway at the Elevon Business Park.

We Don't Do Red Tape. We Do Red Carpets.

At the Lavon EDC, our mandate is simple: Make it easy for you to say "yes." From streamlined permitting to active site selection support, we are your partner on the ground. We are actively investing in the infrastructure your business needs to thrive for the next twenty years.

2 big box anchored retaIL centers

Heritage Square & Shops of Elevon

Why Lavon wins?

• Fast Permiting

• City Parnership

•

478 acres

10 retail strip Centers of zoned commercial land in development stages

Using Treasured Landmarks to Anchor Community

The Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation (Fifth Ward CRC) continues to shape the next chapter of one of Houston’s most historic neighborhoods by using treasured landmarks as anchors for community revitalization.

Through a strategic approach centered on real estate development, economic opportunity, cultural preservation, homeownership support, and community engagement, Fifth Ward CRC is transforming historic spaces into assets that serve residents today while protecting the neighborhood’s legacy for future generations.

Real Estate Development

A cornerstone of this work is St. Elizabeth Place, the adaptive reuse of the historic St. Elizabeth Hospital into a mixed-income residential community. The redevelopment preserves an important landmark while offering affordable, modern housing options that enable residents to remain rooted in the neighborhood.

The project’s thoughtful restoration earned recognition from Preservation Houston with a Good Brick Award, honoring the project for preserving an important piece of Houston’s architectural and cultural history while meeting the housing needs of today’s residents.

Economic Development

Fifth Ward CRC is also investing in the neighborhood’s future economy.

One of the newest additions to this vision is The 2510, located at 2510 Chew Street. Designed as a community-focused technology and creative hub, the center will provide a modern workspace where entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and creators can collaborate, innovate, and grow.

By providing access to technology, professional workspaces, and collaborative programming, The 2510 will help ensure that Fifth Ward entrepreneurs can build and scale businesses without leaving the neighborhood.

Homeownership Promotion and Preservation

Fifth Ward CRC also works to ensure that longtime residents can remain part of the neighborhood’s growth. Through housing counseling, financial literacy programs, and preservation initiatives, the organization helps families achieve and maintain homeownership while protecting the character of the community.

Arts and Culture Development

Cultural preservation remains central to the organization’s mission.

This year marks 10 years since the reopening of the historic DeLUXE Theater, which now serves as a cultural hub for exhibitions, performances, and community gatherings. The theater recently hosted the 2026 DeLUXE Show, “This Far By Faith.” The event brought together generations of artists whose work reflects the history, creativity, and resilience of Black communities.

Community Building and Engagement

At every stage of redevelopment, Fifth Ward CRC ensures that residents remain at the center of the process. Through partnerships with neighbors, businesses, and community organizations, the organization fosters collaboration that strengthens neighborhood identity and shared opportunity.

Why 5th Ward

With its deep cultural roots, proximity to downtown Houston, and growing ecosystem of housing, entrepreneurship, and arts, 5th Ward represents one of Houston’s most promising opportunities for inclusive revitalization.

By investing in the 5th Ward community, partners help build a future where historic preservation, economic opportunity, and community identity move forward together.

Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation

4300 Lyons Ave #300, Houston, TX 77020

Call: (713) 674-0175

Email: info@fifthwardcrc.org www.fifthwardcrc.org

Marble Falls continues to shine as one of texas’ premier destinations

Marble Falls has long been known for its breathtaking scenery, vibrant local culture, and business-friendly atmosphere. Now, supported by stable growth, rising visitation, and expanding economic opportunities, the community is solidifying its position as one of Texas’ most desirable destinations for residents, visitors, and investors alike.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the town of just over 9,500 residents offers a unique combination of small-town charm and modern amenities. Its strategic proximity—just 60 minutes from Austin and 75 minutes from San Antonio—continues to attract businesses and individuals seeking balance, accessibility, and quality of life. As the regional shopping and service hub for more than 121,000 people, Marble Falls has become an economic anchor for the Highland Lakes region.

A Growing Community with Momentum

Recent data underscores Marble Falls’ sustained upward trajectory. In 2024, the area welcomed 963,300 visitors, who stayed an average of 157 minutes per visit and returned an impressive 8.29 times per year. This steady stream of repeat visitors demonstrates the community’s enduring appeal and vibrant local economy.

Migration patterns tell a similar story. Burnet County now ranks #1 in statewide migration, followed closely by Llano County at #2, with Marble Falls gaining 4,900 new residents over the past four years— many relocating from Williamson and Travis Counties. This growth has fueled not only housing demand but also business creation and workforce expansion.

Over the past year alone, 29 new businesses have opened their doors in Marble Falls, with 9 existing businesses expanding to meet growing demand.

Strategic Investment in Growth and Development

Behind Marble Falls’ success is a deliberate, long-term strategy of community investment led by the Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Through a suite of grant programs and targeted partnerships, the EDC has consistently strengthened the foundation for local prosperity—supporting everything from small business improvements and workforce training to community enhancement projects.

Since 2013, these programs have collectively directed millions of dollars into the local economy, helping businesses grow, creating new jobs, and improving quality of life. Whether assisting a local entrepreneur with a façade update, funding skills training for trades and technical careers, or partnering on projects that enhance public spaces and community assets, the EDC’s approach ensures that investment stays rooted in Marble Falls.

This steady, intentional reinvestment has built trust among business owners and residents alike, creating a ripple effect of growth that continues to attract new development while preserving the community’s character.

Downtown Revitalization and Major Projects

Downtown Marble Falls continues to capture the essence of community progress. With its walkable streets, professional offices, independent shops, and lakefront parks, the area blends Hill Country character with entrepreneurial energy.

The most transformative project now underway is the Ophelia Hotel & Conference Center, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection. This $45 million public-private partnership will feature 127 guestrooms, approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting space, and distinctive food and beverage offerings—all just steps from Lake Marble Falls and the heart of Main Street. Construction officially began in May 2025, with a projected opening in October 2026.

Looking Ahead

The future of Marble Falls remains bright. The community’s focus on park area development, business expansion, and the Business & Technology Park expansion continues to attract interest from companies in light manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services. Active sales contracts and ongoing construction at the Park signal strong demand for business-ready sites.

At the same time, Marble Falls remains dedicated to preserving its natural beauty and small-town values. A $25 million Downtown Parks Improvement Plan, launched in 2019, continues to enhance the city’s lakefront spaces—ensuring residents and visitors alike enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation and community events.

An Invitation to Grow with Us

Marble Falls is more than a picturesque Hill Country destination— it’s a thriving, forward-looking community where opportunity meets authenticity. For businesses seeking a place to start, expand, or relocate, the city offers a welcoming environment, modern infrastructure, and a deeply engaged local network.

If the idea of joining a growing community that values both progress and character resonates with you, consider Marble Falls. Whether you envision a new facility in the Business & Technology Park or a restoration project in the heart of downtown, opportunity awaits.

For more information about investing in Marble Falls, contact Christian Fletcher, Executive Director of the Marble Falls Economic Development Corporation, at 830-798-7079 or cfletcher@marblefallseconomy.com.

What makes El Campo special?

El Campo, with a population just under 13,000, is halfway between Houston and Victoria on US Highway 59/Interstate 69. We have a wonderful rural community where residents can find whatever they need at home, but have access to all the big city offerings less than an hour away. Our welcoming, neighborly quality of life is one of our best assets, along with our award winning schools, and the local support for community businesses is unmatched.

Why are businesses coming to El Campo?

Our record-breaking and continuous Sales Tax growth shows new and expanding businesses they can also be healthy in El Campo. Our internationally award-winning “Shop Local!” advertising efforts have shown a measurable increase in the sales for our local businesses for the last 10 years. Healthy existing businesses draw interest from developers looking for new locations. Our businesses are our best local cheerleaders! El Campo also has single and multi-family housing units currently under development, and a new apartment complex adjacent to brand new singlefamily homes.

Are there any particular projects/properties you’re focused on?

The merger between Kansas City Southern Railroad and Canadian Pacific has put El Campo on the map for freight between southern Mexico, through the United States, and coast-to-coast in Canada.

Along with thousands of acres of developable land adjacent to the rail and future I-60 El Campo is poised to become a multi-modal hub.

Are there particular industries/businesses you’d like to see come to El Campo?

Distribution Centers, warehousing and manufacturing are all welcome to El Campo. We also welcome housing development, retail and restaurants.

What kind of incentives would you like REDnews (mostly investors/ developers) viewers to know about?

The entire 1,094 square miles of Wharton County is designated as a Foreign Trade Zone through a partnership with the Port of Houston.

There are three designated Opportunity Zones in El Campo. These census tracts are also eligible for New Market Tax Credits.

The City of El Campo proudly advertises plan review within 2 weeks. This is an often-unheard-of benefit to developers. The City has a Chapter 380 Agreement policy in place for either Sales, Ad Valorum or Hotel/Motel Taxes to incentivize businesses.

The City Development Corporation has Job Creation Incentives, Site Improvement Grants and Infrastructure Assistance Grants. Workforce recruitment and training are also available thru the CDC. There are many additional incentives available to businesses thru our partnerships with agencies within the State of Texas.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about El Campo or about economic development opportunities there?

El Campo is very pro-business and looks forward to managed, sustainable and quality growth in our community. With access to a workforce of over 1,000,000 within a 45-minute drive, we are well positioned to welcome your business to our community.

PAVING THE WAY FOR PROGRESS: INVESTING IN PFLUGERVILLE'S FUTURE

Pflugerville, Texas, is rapidly evolving into a dynamic economic powerhouse With a highly educated workforce and a median household income well above the national average, the city offers immense opportunities for real estate professionals, developers, and investors The Pflugerville Community Development Corporation (PCDC) is leading this transformation, creating a pro-business environment that welcomes strategic growth.

A Vision for Key Developments

Our vision for a revitalized downtown is centered on the Downtown East project, a plan to redevelop the area around FM 685 and East Pecan Street. This initiative will expand the existing core with a new City Hall, a community plaza, and M.O.N.A.R.C.H., a multi-generational recreation center

Construction of City Hall is expected to be completed in late 2026 This area remains an ideal location for new restaurants, retail, and suburban office space. Beyond the downtown area, we continue seeking innovative ideas for Project Nexus, a 53-acre site poised to become a regional destination.

The PCDC has officially hired an Owner’s Representative who has already begun work to guide this project, which we envision will offer unique commercial concepts that enhance the quality of life for our citizens and the greater Central Texas region Our vision for the 53 acres includes retail, restaurants, a hotel with convention space, corporate headquarters, suburban-style offices, and coworking spaces. We also welcome new housing types to meet the needs of our growing population.

Prime Opportunities Along Toll Road 130

The Stone Hill Town Center, an already successful retail hub, offers a prime location for future development with a one-million-squarefoot lot available for construction. This is a perfect opportunity for businesses looking to capitalize on existing high traffic.

For large-scale, mixed-use projects, the land along Toll Road 130 is an unparalleled canvas. Its proximity to both Austin's International and Executive airports makes it ideal for a diverse range of ventures.

Your Partner in Success

The PCDC is dedicated to assisting developers by offering comprehensive support, including but not limited to grants, incentives, and a list of available properties. Our City’s Mayor and Council have proactively secured funding to expand and upgrade our water and wastewater systems, ensuring we can support future growth. Jerry W. Jones Jr., Executive Director of the PCDC, extends a direct invitation:

"We are excited about Pflugerville's future and the opportunities ahead The PCDC is ready to partner with any developer who wants to bring quality-of-life projects that will strengthen our sales tax base and benefit our community for years to come."

Discover Opportunities

Your Next Chapter Starts in Harlingen

Located in South Texas, Harlingen is the strategic hub for logistics, distribution, and industrial growth. Companies are not choosing Harlingen by chance. They are choosing it because of where the market is moving and how well the city is positioned within it.

Harlingen sits inside a corridor shaped by cross-border trade, energy investment, and advanced manufacturing. Just minutes from the Los Indios International Bridge, companies gain direct access to supply chain partners across Mexico while maintaining the advantages of operating in the United States. This location supports faster movement of goods and more efficient coordination across borders.

That position is becoming even more important as investment accelerates across the region. LNG development along the Gulf Coast is driving new industrial demand, infrastructure expansion, and long-term supply chain activity. In nearby Starbase, Texas, SpaceX continues to expand, bringing increased visibility, workforce demand, and supplier opportunities to the area.

These are not isolated projects. They are reshaping how goods move and where companies choose to operate. Harlingen offers a way to be part of that shift without the cost and congestion of larger markets.

Infrastructure That Works Together

Harlingen’s strength is not just in its assets, but in how those assets function as a system. The Port of Harlingen provides access to the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway for bulk and barge freight. Valley International Airport, which has the longest runway in all South Texas, supports cargo operations and includes U.S. Customs. Union Pacific rail connects directly to national and cross-border networks. Interstate 69E and Interstate 2 provide efficient highway access across Texas and into Mexico.

This connectivity allows companies to move between transportation modes with minimal delay. The result is greater control over cost, timing, and reliability.

A Cost Structure That Supports Performance

Harlingen remains one of the more cost-effective locations in Texas for logistics and industrial operations. Land and facilities are accessible. Utilities and operating costs are lower than in major metropolitan areas. Companies can maintain competitive pricing while protecting margins.

That advantage becomes more meaningful as companies look for ways to scale without adding unnecessary overhead.

A Workforce That Stays

Harlingen’s workforce is supported by training programs at Texas State Technical College and regional partners focused on logistics, manufacturing, and technical skills. Employers benefit from a labor pool that is prepared and consistent.

Retention is a defining advantage. Employees stay in Harlingen, supported by affordable housing, strong schools, and a stable community. That continuity strengthens operations and reduces long-term hiring pressure.

Execution That Matches Opportunity

The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation works directly with companies to keep projects moving. Site selection, incentives, and permitting are handled with clarity and responsiveness, allowing businesses to move forward with confidence.

Positioned for What’s Next

Harlingen combines established infrastructure with direct access to the forces shaping the region’s future. For companies in logistics and distribution, it offers a location that supports both immediate operations and long-term growth.

For companies ready to move forward, the next chapter starts in Harlingen.

To learn more, visit https://harlingenedc.com or call 956.216.5081.

SUCCESS STARTS IN HARLINGEN, TEXAS

Located at the heart of an international region with a port, airport, rail, and two interstate highways, Harlingen offers an unmatched strategic location for growth-focused companies.

Easy access, technical training programs, thriving industries, low cost of living, and a young, motivated workforce make Harlingen the ideal place to succeed.

CRE MARKETPLACE

ARCHITECTS/DESIGN-BUILD FIRMS

KDS de stijl interiors, LLC

2006 E Cesar Chavez St. Austin, TX 78702

P: 512.457.1332

Website: kdsaustin.com

Key Contacts: Jill Laverentz, Owner, jill@kdsaustin.com; Clark Kampfe, Principal, clark@kdsaustin.com

Services Provided: Programming & Client Process Analysis – Due Diligence & Building Analysis – Schematic Design – Test Fit & Pricing Notes – Project Scheduling Goals – Consultant Team Formation – Cost Analysis & Value Engineering – Design Development – Construction Documentation – Racking, Commodity, & Equipment Coordination – Permit Processing – Project Management – Construction Administration – Project Budgeting & Cost Tracking – As-Built Documents

Company Profile: KDS is a full-service commercial design firm with 30+ years of experience including 25,000,000+ SF of Industrial/Flex and 3,000,000+ SF of Office Projects. We are committed to responsiveness and to providing well designed and implemented solutions. Our extensive knowledge base and adept management of critical milestones creates consistently successful projects.

Notable/Recent Projects: American Canning – Austin, TX – 101,000 SF –Manufacturing & Distribution

FlightSafety International – TX & OK – 186,000 SF Combined – Manufacturing GT Distributors – Pflugerville, TX – 58,000 SF – Retail, Office, Fabrication, Storage & Distribution

LGE DESIGN BUILD

280 E. Levee Street Dallas, TX 75207

P: 469.498.0998

Website: lgedesignbuild.com

Key Contact: Ray Catlin, Regional Vice President, rcatlin@lgedesignbuild.com

Service Provided: LGE Design Build provides comprehensive design and construction services, including architecture, engineering, and interior design. LGE specializes in commercial, industrial, retail, healthcare, and tenant improvement projects. Utilizing a client-centric, design-build model, LGE ensures streamlined processes, reduced costs, and sustainable building practices for customized, high-quality results.

Company Profile: LGE, with dual headquarters in Phoenix and Dallas, provides full-service architecture, design, engineering, budget control, permits, and construction. Renowned for integrity and craftsmanship, LGE has completed over 1,200 projects across industries like industrial, office, hospitality, medical, and more, delivering award-winning designs. Notable/Recent Projects: LGE Dallas Headquarters, Mesquite 635, Fort West Commerce Center, Houston Point 290, Cypress Creek Distribution Center, McKinney Trade Center II, Sunridge Industrial Park, Park West Phase III, Bottled Blonde / Backyard Fort Worth.

BROKERAGE FIRMS

CMI BROKERAGE

820 Gessner, Suite 1525

Houston, TX 77024

P: 713.961.4666

Website: cmirealestate.com

Key Contacts: Trent Vacek, tvacek@cmirealestate.com; James Sinclair, jsinclair@cmirealestate.com

Services Provided: Central Management, Inc. is a full-service commercial real estate firm providing Brokerage Services; Property, Facility, Construction and Asset Management Services; Landlord and Tenant Representation; Land Sales; Receivership and Real Estate Recovery. Services are available for Industrial, Land, Multifamily, MOB, Office and Retail. Licensed in Oklahoma and Texas.

Company Profile: Central Management, Inc. (CMI) was founded by Houston real estate professional Vic Vacek in 1978. Our team understands the intricacies of the markets that offer investors an edge both from a leasing and an asset management perspective. Certified AMO® 1984, IREM, CPM, CCIM, NAR, HAR, NALP, ICSC, and TREC.

Notable Transactions/Clients: Armada Big Springs Ptnrs, Barbour Invts., Baytown ISD, Core Real Estate, Hoffpauir Estate, JLC Properties, KBR, Prudential, Rawson Blum & Leon, Subway, Texas Hearing Institute, Triple Crown Invts., US Oncology, Vigavi Realty, Walgreens.

ROOFING COMPANIES

HIGHUP ROOFING

6620 Isabelle Dr. Austin, TX 78752

P: 512.566.9989

Website: highuproofingllc.com

Key Contact: Nasir Hussain, Owner, highuproofing94@gmail.com

CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES/GENERAL CONTRACTORS

ALSTON CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

HOU: 1300 W. Sam Houston Pkwy S

Suite 225, Houston, TX 77042

DAL: 10440 North Central Expressway

Suite 720, Dallas, TX 75231

Website: alstonco.com

Key Contact: HOU: Nick Dwyer, Director of Business Development, ndwyer@alstonco.com

DAL: Brittany Schneider, Director of Business Development, bschneider@alstonco.com

Services Provided: Alston offers a diverse background of design-build experience, general contracting and construction management of industrial, commercial, healthcare, retail, and municipal projects.

Company Profile: Alston Construction’s success begins and ends with our approach to planning, scheduling, and choosing the right team. We have been adhering to an open and collaborative approach since our founding more than 35 years ago.

Notable/Recent Projects: Innovation Ridge Logistics Park, a 1.1 million SF 3 building industrial business park in Forney; 610 Business District, a 388,795 SF industrial park located in Houston; 1.2 million SF logistics facility located in Conroe.

SUMMIT DESIGN + BUILD, LLC

98 San Jacinto Blvd, 4th Floor

Austin, TX 78701

P: 512.872.6698

Website: summitdb.com

Key Contacts: Adam Miller, President, amiller@summitdb.com;

Doug Hayes, Project Executive, dhayes@summitdb.com; Amber Autumn, Business Development, aautumn@summitdb.com

Services Provided: Summit Design + Build, LLC is a provider of full service general contracting, construction management and design/ build construction services for the commercial, industrial, multifamily residential, office/tenant interiors, hospitality and institutional markets.

Company Profile: Located in downtown Austin and with offices in Tampa, FL, Chicago, IL and North Carolina, Summit Design + Build has been involved in the design and construction of over 400 buildings and spaces totaling more than 10 million square feet over the firm’s 18 year history.

Notable/Recently Completed Projects: Montage – 2323 S. Lamar (Multifamily), Congress Lofts at St. Elmo (Multifamily), UpCampus Student Housing Tallahassee (Multifamily), WeWork (Office TI), Eli’s Cheesecake (Industrial), Lockheed Martin (Industrial), Stadium Lofts North Carolina (Multifamily).

HEALTHCARE MOB

PUREFYT COMMUNITY CARE

14205 N MoPac Expy, Suite 570 PMB #565290 Austin, TX 78728

P: 512.775.3704

Website: purefytcc.com

Key Contact: Ge'O-Vanna Smith, Owner, mobileivtherapyaustin@gmail.com

Services Provided: Mobile Medical Services; emergency medical services; medical service company; emergency medical services; family health medical services; behavioral health services; behavioral mental health; behavioral healthcare services; behavior health services; behavior health service; advanced behavioral health services; mobile iv therapy; mobile iv therapy near me; mobile iv therapy austin; community medical services.

Services Provided: Flat Roof Coating, Roof Repair, Roof Installation, Roof Maintenance, Torch Down Roofing, Commercial Roofing, Residential Roofing.