“They are one of the best corporate citizens I’ve ever been associated with.”

Exciting prospects

Waco City Manager Dale Fisseler did not discuss specifics of SpaceX’s $46 million vision for the site, but expressed excitement at the prospects.

“This is a big deal. It signals us becoming more regional in our economic development efforts,” he said.

He said SpaceX’s high profile in the private space exploration industry has made it a target for other cities’ recruiting efforts.

“Because SpaceX is so successful, a lot of other communities are competitors,” he said

He said that as SpaceX invests more in McGregor, all of Greater Waco will benefit.

“We’re hoping to see continued growth,” he said. “For us, this is the company of the future.”

To help the project succeed, the city of McGregor and the McGregor Economic Development Corp. have agreed to provide $277,000 worth of sewer upgrades and $40,000 worth of water connections. The McGregor EDC also is considering a cash grant in support of the project.