Midland Mayor Lori Blong said an agreement to advance spaceports in Midland is a "significant development," and she welcomed the Space Force Association to the city. The Midland Development Corporation approved the agreement to advance spaceports and aid the organization in establishing its headquarters in Midland.
"This is a significant development for Midland and earmarks our city as a location for future testing capabilities of the space force sector and will bring economic growth for Midland and the West Texas region,” said Blong, according to her Facebook post.
The association, as per Blong's post, plans to organize social events and workshops aimed at bringing together industry leaders, local schools, and nonprofit research entities within one of the Permian Basin’s largest cities.
The Midland Reporter-Telegram reported that the agreement is set to last until September 30, 2025, with costs not exceeding $250,000.
According to the publication, the headquarters will be situated at the University of Texas Permian Basin’s Center (UTPB) for Energy and Economic Diversification. The association conveyed to the outlet that strategic partnerships and anticipated sponsorship funding from industry leaders will bolster its self-sufficiency.
In her post, Blong expressed gratitude towards Lourcy Sams and the Midland Development Corporation for their role in securing the agreement. "This partnership solidifies Midland's status as a hub for space force activities and highlights our community's commitment to innovation and economic growth," she stated.
The Midland Reporter-Telegram further reported that the headquarters will operate for six years and hire two student interns from UTPB who have an interest in the industry. Overall, it was reported that the association will promote Midland as a viable location for both U.S. Space Force operations and Texas-related stakeholders.