Expanded Interstate Access Will Reshape West Texas Connectivity

Two big interstate projects, I-14 and I-27, are moving forward in West Texas. These highways will join I-20, place Midland at the hub of three interstates, and transform how industries in Midland connect to markets across the U.S. and around the world. Midland will be positioned as a central hub for energy, trade, and advanced manufacturing.

Interstate 14 Builds East-West Market Reach

The I-14 Central Texas Corridor will stretch from Midland east through San Angelo, Killeen, and Bryan, all the way to the Port of Beaumont and the Port of Port Arthur. These two ports are among the busiest in the United States. ​​That means products made in West Texas will have a direct route to global shipping hubs.

In 2020, more than 264 million tons of freight moved along the I-14 system in Texas. By 2050, that number is expected to nearly double. For Midland's energy, aerospace, and manufacturing industries, I-14 will open stronger pathways to the Gulf Coast, the Southeast, and international markets.

Interstate 27 Strengthens North-South Supply Chains

The I-27 Ports-to-Plains Corridor will run from Laredo up through San Angelo, Big Spring, Midland, and Lubbock, then into Colorado. This development creates a straight interstate link between the Permian Basin and Mexico, one of Texas's largest trading partners, as well as Central U.S. markets.

I-27 is especially important for moving oil, natural gas, crops, and manufactured goods. Since Laredo is already the largest inland port in the U.S. for trade with Mexico, expanding I-27 will give Midland even greater access to cross-border commerce.

Supporting Energy, Trade, and Emerging Industries

The interstate upgrades directly benefit the core industries of the region:

• Energy production gains more efficient transport of crude, natural gas, and renewable energy supplies to Gulf Coast refineries and export hubs.
• Agriculture and food products move more reliably across the state and into national markets.
• Manufacturing and logistics leverage intermodal access to reach growing consumer and industrial bases.

West Texas also benefits from proximity to multiple shale plays, renewable energy generation, and growing manufacturing capacity. The enhanced interstate access ensures these industries compete effectively in expanding global markets.

A First Mover Opportunity for Businesses

Construction on the Midland-Odessa phases of both projects is beginning with environmental reviews and schematic development. Phased work is expected to roll out over the next five to ten years.

Businesses that establish or expand operations in Midland before the project's completion will secure first-mover advantages. By positioning within a region that will soon sit at the intersection of three interstate highways, companies can lock in access to workforce, land, and facilities at current values before demand accelerates.

Midland's Role in Shaping the Corridor

The Midland Development Corporation is working with partners to support business expansion and attraction strategies tied to these interstate investments. Companies evaluating growth in energy, aerospace, logistics, and manufacturing should contact MDC now to explore available sites, workforce resources, and incentives.