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SpaceX Strikes Deal for Launch Site in South Texas

Texas and SpaceX have announced that the company will build the first commercial site for orbital launches on the state's southernmost tip.
Image: SpaceX in Texas
An artist's conception shows an aerial view of SpaceX's planned launch facility near Brownsville, Texas.SpaceX

Texas and SpaceX have announced that the company will build the first commercial site for orbital launches on the state's southernmost tip. The $85 million site at Boca Chica Beach, east of Brownsville, will be used to launch commercial satellites. Gov. Rick Perry's office said Monday that it will provide $2.3 million from the Texas Enterprise Fund. The state will offer an additional $13 million from the Spaceport Trust Fund to pay for infrastructure development.

California-based SpaceX is expected to create 300 jobs at the site. The company already has a rocket testing facility in McGregor that employs 250 people. SpaceX says it plans 12 launches a year from the Texas facility. CEO Elon Musk says the site will draw tourists, inspire students and expand suppliers.

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— The Associated Press