210: Turning a Military Base into a Manufacturing Engine with Eric Voyles

About this episode

Dane Carlson interviews Eric Voyles about transforming a military base into a manufacturing hub through innovative economic development strategies.

In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Eric Voyles, Executive Vice President and Chief Economic Development Officer for TexAmericas Center, about how a former 8,900-acre military installation became one of the most innovative redevelopment authorities in the country. Eric explains how eliminating public review delays, investing millions in environmental cleanup, controlling rail and logistics assets, and focusing relentlessly on speed to occupancy have allowed TexAmericas Center to compete for heavy and light manufacturing projects. From creative risk-taking with early-stage companies to clearing 250-acre rail-served sites after losing a deal, this conversation is a masterclass in how data, preparation, and governance alignment drive real economic development results. Like this show? Please leave us a review here — even one sentence helps! 10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers Make time your primary incentive. If possible, remove unnecessary entitlement layers and compress approval timelines. Speed reduces perceived risk. Self-certify before paying for certification. Develop internal "qualified site" standards so prospects can complete…

People in this episode

Host: Dane Carlson

Guest: Eric Voyles

Topics covered

• economic development
• manufacturing
• redevelopment
• logistics
• environmental cleanup
• public policy

Keywords

• economic development
• manufacturing projects
• TexAmericas Center
• public review delays
• environmental cleanup
• logistics assets
• speed to occupancy

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TexAmericas Center

Places: 8,900-acre military installation

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