Blue Origin, Jeff Bezos' space technology company, will build an advanced manufacturing and operations campus in Hutto, the city and state of Texas announced Oct. 8.
“Texas has long understood what it takes to lead in space exploration,” Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp said in the state's release. “We're proud to grow our footprint here in Texas, tap into the world-class talent this state has to offer and help ensure America remains the leader in space innovation.”
The big picture
The project, called Constellation Park, represents a nearly $555 million capital investment and will create more than 2,000 jobs, according to a news release from Gov. Greg Abbott's office.
Blue Origin will move into approximately 1.3 million square feet of space in the existing industrial park along Hwy. 79 between Innovation Boulevard and Alliance Boulevard, per releases from the city of Hutto and Blue Origin. The facility will be a production hub for satellite and communications technology.
“Hutto is becoming an anchor point on the Hwy. 79 tech corridor," Mayor Mike Snyder said in the release. "Our policies and our approach to business are drawing in the kind of companies that create career opportunities, not just jobs. That's what it takes to build a place where people want to live, work and play."
A closer look
To come to the site, Blue Origin received a Texas Enterprise Fund grant of more than $18 million and a $10,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus.
Additionally, Williamson County, the city of Hutto and the Hutto Economic Development Corp. have extended incentives to Blue Origin. However, officials have said the terms of these deals will not be available until they are executed.
City of Hutto leaders said in the news release this deal marks "one of the largest economic development wins in Hutto's history."
“Every project we bring to Hutto is measured against the same goals: quality jobs, a diverse tax base and sustainable growth that benefits our residents," Cheney Gamboa, Hutto's director of economic development, said in the release. "Blue Origin checks every one of those boxes, and it's a strong step toward the kind of long-term economic stability we've been working to build for this community.”
One more thing
As part of the agreement, Blue Origin has committed to working with Hutto ISD to provide internships and support career and technical education programs.
"Blue Origin's investment will have a ripple effect across Hutto and Williamson County, from job creation to opportunities for our schools and workforce to grow alongside a world-class aerospace company,” Caitlin Morales, board chair of the Hutto Economic Development Corp., said in the release. "We're proud to have played a role in bringing this project home.”
What's next
The city stated that more information about the construction timeline, job opportunities and economic impact will be made available as the project progresses.
