We were honored to attend the 2023 Economic Outlook Conference, presented by the Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce. Expert speakers from across our community and beyond shared insights on the state of the economy in 2022 and what we can expect in 2023.
We are grateful to live in a community that values both tradition and entrepreneurial growth—one that elevates leaders who are passionate about creating policy that allows businesses to thrive here in Aggieland.
1. Private-Sector Employment Has Surpassed Public-Sector Employment
Presented by: Natalie Ruiz, Director of Economic Development, City of College Station
For the first time in history, private-sector employment in College Station has outpaced public-sector employment, with 970 new jobs added. Biotech companies are continuing to move into the area, bringing innovation, new employment opportunities, and increased demand for housing.
You can see signs of this growth across town—development is booming. One notable project is Midtown City Center and Business Park, which will feature a waterway surrounded by restaurants, housing, and 28 acres of commercial space.
Additionally, the upcoming Texas Independence Ballpark will host baseball tournaments, bringing more visitors and economic activity. And if you’ve visited the new Costco, you were part of the 544,000 visitors it welcomed in just five months!
2. Traffic Will Get Worse Before It Gets Better – But It Will Get Better!
Infrastructure is catching up to the rapid growth. Improvements are in the pipeline, but short-term traffic challenges are inevitable. The message was clear: patience will pay off.
3. New Neighborhood Developments Are Sprawling Across Bryan and College Station
Residential growth continues in all directions. New subdivisions include:
- Highland Oaks
- Pleasant Hill
- Rudder Pointe
- Stella Ranch
- Yaupon Trails
4. A Tale of Two “Midtowns” – One Shared Goal
Both College Station and Bryan have their own “Midtown” developments, but with one unifying objective: to enhance the quality of life in the Brazos Valley through vibrant, mixed-use spaces that provide diverse experiences for residents and visitors alike.
College Station Midtown Highlights:
- Live, work, and play community design
- Miles of connected trails and green spaces
- Town Lake Park amenities
- Access to Lick Creek Park through trail systems
Popular Businesses in Tower Point & Caprock Crossing:
Gringo’s, Pinspiration, Marfa’s, Shogun Sushi Bar, Brazos Brim, Le Petit Cochon, Suede, SoCo
Providence Park Development:
Big Sky Medical, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Matica Biotechnology
5. A Focus on Redevelopment in Bryan
Presented by: Joey Dunn, Deputy City Manager, City of Bryan
Bryan is embracing change with a new leadership team bringing fresh, diverse vision. In 2022, the city saw its second-highest year on record for housing permits, issuing 846 single-family permits. Bryan continues annexation efforts to support population growth.
Key Areas of Industrial and Research Development:
- Texas Triangle Park
- Bryan Business Park
- Brazos County Industrial Park
- RELLIS Campus
- Innovation Corridor
- BioCorridor
- Reveille Park
- Carrabba Industrial Park
- Coulter Airfield
Bryan Development Hotspots:
- Midtown Bryan: Legends Event Center, Shulman’s Movie Bowl Grille, boardwalk, amphitheater, esports gaming
- William J. Bryan Parkway (South Texas Avenue to SH-21): Ongoing development
- South College Avenue: Revitalization projects and incentives for new businesses
As our region continues to grow, it’s exciting to see strategic investments being made to support the economy, infrastructure, and quality of life in the Brazos Valley. The 2023 Economic Outlook Conference made it clear—we’re just getting started.
