Starbase Watch · October 2, 2026 · Local economy, part 3
The county's number matches what NextDecade's three financing deals add up to. Trains 1 and 2 are 74 percent complete, the company says, and the permits are still being fought in court.
Part 3: Rio Grande LNG
Background photo: NASA. Channel photo: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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Every launch pulls thousands of visitors into Cameron County, and most of them find out too late that the beach and highway close, or that the best views aren't where they parked. Viewing spots, closure calendars, timing, and what to bring.
Launch viewing guide →Hotels in Brownsville, beachfront on South Padre Island, and RV sites minutes from the launch corridor. What each option is good for, and how launch weeks change the math.
Lodging guide →The overwhelming majority of people working at Starbase have to find their own housing. If that's you, or you're coming for the port, the LNG projects, or the growth itself, start with the honest version of the housing market.
Relocation guide →Starbase Watch
Three financing deals, about 30 million tonnes a year under construction, first LNG expected in 2027, and a permit fight in court. Part 3 of our series.
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$3 billion or $3.248 billion, up to 10,000 jobs, a 2028 opening: each number with its source. Part 2 of our series.
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Rio Grande LNG $31.8B, Starbase $3.5B, Port Alpha $3B, Texas LNG $2.8B, by the county's estimates. A deep dive on each starts tomorrow.
Read the item →Housing help
Housing inquiries on this site are handled by Schrank Property Management, our own operation. Moving in for Starbase, the port, or the LNG projects? Tell us what you need and when you land (long-term rental, monthly RV site, or not sure yet) and a human replies with real availability.