An East Texas industrial site is partnering with Union Pacific Railroad to boost economic development in the region.
The TexAmericas Center in Hooks has been selected to join the Union Pacific Focus Site program. CEO Scott Norton believes this collaboration will help attract more jobs, capital investments, and new businesses to the area.
In 2021, the TexAmericas Center secured over $864,000 in federal grant funds to renovate and construct new rail facilities within the park. Currently, most of these upgrades are underway at the 12,000-acre industrial site.
Norton says being chosen for the Union Pacific Focus Site program validates their efforts to prepare their rail infrastructure for industrial use.
“Having the focus program at our site signals to business owners and site selectors that we are ready for new industry and development. Our rail meets Union Pacific’s standards, and we’re ready to move forward,” said Norton.
He adds that the program increases their visibility to potential business prospects.
Since Union Pacific announced the certification, one company has already reached out, and Norton expects more interest in the near future.
The Union Pacific Focus Site program includes over 30 shovel-ready sites across its network.
