Gutierrez : At the Port of Brownsville, opportunity isn’t just on the horizon. It’s happening now. 

Business at the Port of Brownsville is transforming the landscape of the Rio Grande Valley. My name is Ernesto Gutierrez, and I am proud to serve as commissioner of the Brownsville Navigation District.

For the Port of Brownsville, opportunity isn’t just on the horizon. It’s happening right now. We are seeing billions in private investments flowing into the region, creating jobs, enhancing infrastructure and strengthening our economy. 

Just off Highway 48 you’ll see Forza Steel’s 650,000 square foot facility under construction right here at the Port, valued at more than $85 million. Taking advantage of the Port’s nearshoring capabilities, this state of the art plant will bring over 600 new jobs, both direct and indirect to the region, producing steel pipes and tubes for diverse industries. 

That’s not all. Long time Port partner, Ternium, a leader in steel manufacturing, has set their sights on the Port with a $200 million development featuring a marine terminal. Growing business demands means big business and Texas cement is expanding its footprint, shifting from import to production with a new $42 million facility. 

Brownsville Navigation District Commissioner Ernesto Gutierrez

The energy sector is growing at the Port. In addition to ongoing terminal expansions, construction of NextDecade’s Rio Grande LNG continues without interruptions, accomplishing milestones and on schedule with their timeline of completion. This project is already making a lasting impact in our region, bringing thousands of quality jobs to our communities. 

These developments are only part of the Port’s story. We’re moving forward to building a stronger future. We are the Port of Brownsville, where investment fuels progress.

Editor’s Note: The above commentary was provided by Brownsville Navigation District Commissioner Ernesto Gutierrez.

About Ernesto Gutierrez

Ernesto Gutierrez was elected as Commissioner, Place 1, on the Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners following his successful election in the May 4, 2024, general election.

Gutierrez graduated from Saint Joseph Academy high school before pursuing higher education at Southern Methodist University, where he earned a degree in Political Science.

With a focus on fostering economic growth and job creation, Gutierrez prioritizes the expansion of existing businesses and attracting new enterprises to the port.

Gutierrez brings a wealth of professional experience to his role, spanning sectors crucial to the port’s development. His professional background includes proficiency in international business, property development, warehousing, material handling, in addition to construction in the residential, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Gutierrez finds strength and inspiration in his family. He is happily married to his wife Paulina and is a devoted father to three daughters: Paulina, Cordelia and Clara.

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