The Bryan-College Station metropolitan area in Texas is experiencing robust economic expansion, driven by employment growth, low unemployment, and strong contributions from Texas A&M University. Local leaders and economists describe the region as thriving, with economic indicators outpacing statewide averages. Brazos County Judge Kyle Kacal emphasized the momentum, stating that business activity is flourishing and expressing confidence in the community’s ability to sustain this trajectory. n nAccording to Dr. Dennis Jansen, head of the economics department at Texas A&M, the region is growing faster than many other parts of Texas. Key metrics such as job creation, low joblessness, and rising real GDP reflect a resilient local economy. Unlike national trends that suggest a potential economic slowdown, there are no immediate signs of a downturn in the Bryan-College Station area. n nA major driver of this prosperity is Texas A&M University, which not only serves as the largest employer in the region but also fuels tourism and long-term economic development. Dr. Jansen highlighted the university’s role in attracting students and visitors, joking that the school’s football program effectively functions as a tourism engine. Game days bring thousands back to campus, including alumni who return regularly or choose to settle permanently in the area. n nJudge Kacal noted the emotional and cultural pull of the community, especially among former students who are drawn back for family life or retirement. Events ranging from football matches to activities at Central Park and Legends contribute to a vibrant local culture that supports economic vitality. n nLooking ahead, upcoming infrastructure projects, including the construction of nuclear reactors in the region, are expected to provide a significant boost to both the local and broader Texas economy. These developments are anticipated to generate high-skilled jobs and attract further investment, reinforcing the area’s reputation as a hub for innovation and growth. n
— news from KBTX News 3
— News Original —
Bryan-College Station boasts promising economic outlook: ‘Business is booming’
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – Economic experts say the Bryan- College Station economy is growing, and Texas overall remains a great state for businesses to operate. n nBrazos County Judge Kyle Kacal told KBTX, “Business is booming. Business is rolling, and I’m glad to be able to be here to help guide that ship in the right direction.” n nWhere employment has grown, unemployment has decreased across Aggieland. n nTexas A&M Economic Department Head Dr. Dennis Jansen said the area is faring better than some other Texas cities. n n“The local area, by some measures, is growing faster than the average in the State of Texas,” Dr. Jansen said. “We have employment growth, we have low unemployment rates, we have real output or real GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth.” n nDr. Jansen credited the strength of Texas A&M University, which is not only the largest employer in the area, but also a huge booster for the local tourism industry. n n“We have a very strong university that can attract students and turn students away. We actually have quite a good tourism industry. It’s called ‘Texas A&M football,’” emphasized Dr. Jansen. n nNationally, Dr. Jansen said there are trends of the economy slowing down, but locally there is no need to worry n n“The local economy- actually appears to be in good shape. There is some evidence of slowing at the national level, but there’s no clear indication of an imminent recession,” he assured. n nJudge Kacal said the uniqueness of the BCS area makes it a destination that many come back to, whether to start a family or enjoy their retirement years. n n“The amount of former students that want to move back, and/or the former students that come here every weekend- whether it’s [for] seven or eight football games in the fall, or [for] all the activities from Legends [to] Central Park. Whether it’s football, soccer, volleyball, people want to come home,” added Judge Kacal. n nJansen mentioned the nuclear reactors being built in the area and said those will really boost not just the local economy but the Texas economy overall in years to come.