Starbase approves SpaceX's Gigabay project for economic development

STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Starbase has approved SpaceX's Gigabay project for nomination to the Texas Enterprise Zone Program, potentially allowing the company to receive a refund on state sales tax.

The Gigabay facility, valued at $500 million, exceeds the state's $250 million capital investment threshold, making it eligible for the program. The project is expected to create over 500 jobs, with 25% of these positions filled by zoned residents.

The ordinance allows SpaceX to potentially receive a refund on state sales tax through the Texas Enterprise Zone Program.

The Gigabay facility aims to produce 1,000 Starships per year, significantly boosting local employment and economic activity. Operations are slated to begin in October 2026, with full operations expected by the end of the following year.

Kent Myers, Starbase City Administrator, highlighted the project's potential for stable employment and significant community investment.

Barrera highlighted that the project is on track to hire all 500 employees by the end of the year, achieving this in under eight months, which was initially planned for five years.

Myers noted that construction is progressing well, with no significant challenges anticipated. "Construction is going really well, and it is anticipated to be completed next year. So far, we haven’t had any challenges associated with it," he said.

If approved, the Enterprise Zone designation will last from 2025 to 2030, further supporting SpaceX's substantial investment in the Starbase area, which has already exceeded $3 billion.

All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by KVEO. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by KVEO staff before being published.