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Downtown San Antonio is seen in October 2024. Our guest columnist, a professional site selector, is optimistic about the Austin-San Antonio megaregion\u2019s potential.<\/p>\n
Josie Norris\/San Antonio Express-News<\/p>\n
Larry Gigerich is a nationally recognized leader in economic development and site selection, with more than 35 years of experience in local and state government, not-for-profits and the private sector.<\/p>\n
Courtesy of Larry Gigerich<\/p>\n
The U.S. and the world are fortunate to have access to several great megaregions, large economic centers with the key building blocks to position them for long-term growth and success.<\/p>\n
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While some\u00a0megaregions face challenges, others are emerging along the economic landscape. One of the next great\u00a0megaregions to watch will be the Austin-San Antonio corridor.<\/p>\n
There are many reasons why site selectors and corporate decision makers worldwide recognize the Austin-San Antonio corridor as one of the most attractive megaregions in which to invest, grow and prosper.<\/p>\n
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Texas offers abundant land for commercial and residential development; a growing, educated population; five of the most dynamic, fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country; business-friendly tax policies; and a welcoming and collaborative state\u00a0government.<\/p>\n
Texas exemplifies opportunities for many people and companies from all walks of life searching for good jobs, business growth and a sustainable, affordable lifestyle.<\/p>\n
COMMENTARY: Let\u2019s get San Antonio and Austin back on track with rail<\/a><\/p>\n The Austin-San Antonio\u00a0megaregion boasts approximately 5.5 million residents and is projected to grow to more than 8 million by 2050. The area is blessed with an abundance of assets, including excellent higher educational institutions, housing options for all segments of the population, a diverse young population, an affordable cost of living, a growing number of new blue- and white-collars jobs, a diversified economic base and an outstanding quality of life for residents to grow and thrive in.<\/p>\n As a professional site selector, I am extremely optimistic about the potential for the Austin-San Antonio megaregion; however, any fast-growing region will experience challenges, and the Austin-San Antonio corridor is not immune.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n It will be vital for the area to address key issues, such as water, road, rail and air infrastructure; air quality; K-12 education; and land use. The positive news is that these issues have been a focus for public policymakers in the region and state for the past 10 to\u00a015 years, and efforts are underway to develop and execute plans to guide the region through this\u00a0century.<\/p>\n One leader who deserves to be brought into focus is Henry\u00a0Cisneros. As a former San Antonio City Council member and mayor, he helped dramatically transform the city\u2019s economy; grow its tourism, convention and hospitality sector; attract emerging tech companies; and deliver high-quality governmental services.<\/p>\n Barton Springs pool in Austin\u2019s Zilker Park is seen in June 2023 in front of the city\u2019s skyline. Barton Springs is slated to be a major stop on the Great Springs Project trail plan, a project that is attempting to connect San Antonio to Austin through a trail complex that would connect the major springs in San Antonio, New Braunfels, San Marcos and Austin.<\/p>\n William Luther\/Staff<\/p>\n Cisneros\u2019 book, \u201cThe Austin-San Antonio Megaregion: Opportunity and Challenge in the Lone Star State,\u201d<\/a> with Robert Rivard and David Hendricks, illustrates the incredible opportunity and the challenges ahead for the Austin-San Antonio area to become the world\u2019s next great megaregion.<\/p>\n The book offers an impressive yet balanced perspective, being\u00a0aspirational and realistic when discussing the megaregion\u2019s future.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<\/p>\n