Fort Bend County, Texas, is experiencing a surge in new business developments, reflecting its status as one of the fastest-growing regions in the Greater Houston area. This growth is driven by significant investments from major corporations and innovative projects designed to enhance the economic landscape.
One of the notable expansions is by Frito-Lay, a division of PepsiCo, which announced a $200 million investment to enhance its Rosenberg facility in June 2021. This project includes adding two new manufacturing lines and expanding warehouse capacity, with completion anticipated by 2023. This expansion is expected to create 160 new full-time jobs.
Laura Maxwell, senior vice president of supply chain for PepsiCo Foods North America, highlighted the support from Fort Bend County, stating, “We’ve called Rosenberg home for nearly 40 years. Throughout that time, the support of Fort Bend County has helped us invest in the right areas so that we can continue to grow and provide jobs to the community”.
Another significant development is Austin Point, a 4,700-acre master-planned community that aims to transform Houston living. This project will feature 14 million square feet of commercial space, including retail, office, and medical facilities, along with a walkable downtown area with an “innovation zone” for technology and life sciences labs. This ambitious development is strategically located at the future intersection of the Grand Parkway and the Fort Bend Parkway.
The Grid in Stafford is another key project. This 192-acre mixed-use center includes office spaces, hotels, pop-up shops, and residential units. The development features vibrant public spaces designed for concerts, festivals, and other community events.
Brian Murphy, managing principal of Edge Realty, emphasized the strategic choice of Fort Bend for this project due to its fast-growing population and pro-business environment.
Fort Bend County’s economic landscape is further bolstered by its diverse and growing commercial sector. Home to major employers like Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and Texas Instruments, the county’s GDP grew by 5.2% over the past decade. The region’s commercial value increased by 74% from 2010 to 2020, reflecting its appeal to businesses.
The quality of life in Fort Bend County is another major draw. The county offers a range of amenities, including Constellation Field, Seabourne Creek Nature Park, and the Smart Financial Centre.
Sugar Land Town Square, a 1.4 million-square-foot mixed-use development, provides dining, shopping, and residential options, making it a central hub for community activities. The county is also known for its exceptional education system, with six school districts and access to top-ranked colleges and universities in Greater Houston.
As Fort Bend County continues to expand, these developments highlight its commitment to creating a thriving business environment while maintaining a high standard of living for its residents.