Castillo: Mission and the RGV are moving at a pace that is unstoppable

MISSION, Texas – The Rio Grande Guardian International News Service secured an exclusive interview with attorney and land developer Luis Rodrigo Castillo at a recent Mission Economic Development Corporation’ “Business over Breakfast” event.

Castillo was a panelist at the event, which was held at the Center for Education and Economic Development. 

Interviewed after the panel discussion had ended, Castillo spoke about a 145-acre industrial park his company, Union Design Developers, is developing close to Anzalduas International Bridge. 

He said the park, which should be operational by as early as next year, could house 6.5 million square feet of storage. He said the space could be used for warehousing, manufacturing and a data center.

Asked about his company, Castillo said: “So, we focus on real estate development in the Rio Grande Valley. But right now, we’re prioritizing Mission. Mission is an opportunity with the development of the Anzalduas International Bridge. We’re hoping to be the first to open up industrial space south of the 83rd Street, so the expressway, right? And we’re really excited.”

Castillo continued: “We have 145 acres out there, roughly around 6.5 million square feet of storage space. We’re incredibly excited, because we know Mission is the place to be. Anzalduas is going to be ready, hopefully by 2025. Let’s just say six more months. By the time that’s ready to go, we’ll be ready to go too.”

Asked what his industrial land might be used for, Castillo said: “There’s a lot that can be done. My idea is the following: warehousing, potential manufacturing and even potentially a data center. Why do I say this? Because the location of our land is right below Sharyland Utilities.”

Asked how much demand there is for industrial space, Castillo said:

“Oh, my goodness, I can’t say it enough. I’m excited because every day I get a message, hey, there’s someone that’s interested in talking to you about the industrial land. Are you free? I’m like, of course. The market is so hot.”

Castillo said he believes the market will remain hot, even if President Trump introduces tariffs on importers.

“Despite the fact of tariffs being considered, people are excited. Momentum will not slow down. And even if it does take a hit… my phone doesn’t stop ringing, and that’s what we’re excited about.”

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a 145-acre industrial park being built by Union Design Developers close to Anzalduas International Bridge. Pictured is UDD President Luis Rodrigo Castillo. (Photo credit: Mission EDC)

Asked if the demand is being fueled by nearshoring, Castillo said: “I think a lot of it is due to the nearshoring. Mexico is becoming more productive. They have better employment. They have more sophisticated employment. And the United States is looking for more sophistication as well. It’s just hand-in-hand. The nearshoring (phenomenon) has given a great opportunity to the Valley, and I think we are at a critical the moment.”

Castillo is a big supporter of the RioPlex branding initiative undertaken by the CEO Group of business leaders. 

“I can vouch for Mission because I’m from here. But most importantly, the RioPlex area includes the Port of Brownsville, right? You have, if I’m not mistaken, 14 ports of entry in the (RioPlex) area. And you have around seven international airports in the area. What is not to take advantage of? There’s so much opportunity here.”

Castillo added: “Mission and the RGV are moving at a pace that is unstoppable. Unstoppable. We’re in a beautiful place. Strategic also. They’re coming to Mission. They’re coming to the RioPlex area. It’s beautiful.”

Editor’s Note: Here is a video recording of the interview with land developer Luis Rodrigo Castillo:

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