What does it take to showcase Houston’s extraordinary contributions to Texas? For the Greater Houston Partnership, the answer was Houston Day. The transformative event gave state legislators a firsthand look at the industries and innovations driving one of the most dynamic regions in the country. Over two days in early 2024, 57 Texas lawmakers and other attendees explored Houston’s core sectors, experiencing the city’s impact on the state’s economy and culture. The event wasn’t just a tour but a strategic opportunity to connect lawmakers with the people and industries shaping Texas’ future. A Journey Through Houston’s Vital Sectors The experience began at Port Houston, a hub of economic activity essential to Texas’ position as a global trade leader. Legislators saw the port’s operations up close and learned about the evolution of the Houston Ship Channel, the energy transition, and the Coastal Texas Program’s flood mitigation efforts. From there, the focus shifted to Houston’s renowned space industry. Visits to the Johnson Space Center-NASA and Space Center Houston highlighted Houston’s legacy of innovation and the recent investments fueling the Texas Space Commission. The day concluded with a private dinner at Minute Maid Park, where Mayor John Whitmire underscored the importance of collaboration between local and state leaders. Showcasing Innovation and Heritage The final day of Houston Day spotlighted Houston’s cutting-edge advancements and cultural heritage. At Air Liquide’s La Porte Hydrogen facility, legislators explored groundbreaking technologies driving the energy transition. Later, a visit to the Texas Medical Center’s Helix Park showcased Houston’s leadership in medical research and health care innovation. The event culminated at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, celebrating the rich cultural fabric of Texas. Why Houston Day Matters “I was honored to showcase Houston’s vibrant contributions to the economy, space innovation, and leadership in the medical and energy sectors to my colleagues at the Legislature. It’s no longer just words on a page or something discussed in a committee meeting—they’ve experienced it all.” -State Senator Carol Alvarado. For the Greater Houston Partnership, Houston Day was a resounding success. By connecting lawmakers directly with Houston’s industries, the event reinforced the city’s significance to Texas and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. By the Numbers: 57 legislators and four state agencies in attendance 162 total attendees 180+ miles traveled, covering over $1 trillion in economic impact 20+ industrial and commercial sectors highlighted Eight stops representing approximately $252.5 billion in state investments Houston Day exemplifies how the Greater Houston Partnership brings leaders together to build understanding, foster collaboration, and drive progress for the region and beyond. Learn more about the Partnership's public policy efforts. Download the Partnership's 2024 Impact Report.

People are moving to Texas, and businesses are building new facilities. That rapid growth is straining resources, particularly water. According to a new report, Texas must invest $154 billion over the next 50 years in new water supply and infrastructure—critical needs to support the state’s expanding population and booming industries. The report from Texas 2036, a nonpartisan public policy think tank, highlights the urgency of this investment. Without reliable water infrastructure, Texas could face the loss of a million jobs and more than $160 billion in economic impact over the next five decades. The report underscores a stark reality: a comprehensive, sustainable funding strategy for water is necessary to keep Texas economically resilient and competitive. Investment Needs The 2022 Texas Water Plan and US EPA initially estimated that Texas would need $132 billion in water infrastructure investments over the next 50 years. However, Texas 2036 has adjusted this figure for inflation, raising the projected cost to $154 billion. While state and federal programs—such as the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) and the newly established Texas Water Fund—are expected to provide around $40-45 billion in financial support over the coming decades, a significant long-term funding gap persists.   Click to expand Texas 2036 graphic showing cost estimate for water infrastructure needs Dual Challenges According to the report, Texas faces two challenges. First, the state must develop a broad, diversified water supply portfolio to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population and economy while strengthening resilience to future droughts. The water supply gap poses additional risks to the state’s electricity generation, as low water levels during droughts could limit power from natural gas, nuclear and coal plants. Second, aging and deteriorating drinking water and wastewater systems. Over the past five years, nearly 3,000 boil water notices have been issued annually, leaving communities without reliable water service.  Impact on Industries A severe, prolonged drought would have widespread effects on industries across Texas. Manufacturing, a key driver of the state’s economy, is one example.  The top five manufacturing regions—Dallas-Fort Worth, the Greater Houston area, East Texas (Beaumont, Tyler, Lufkin), Central Texas (College Station, Temple, Waco), and South Central Texas (San Antonio, Victoria)—together account for 82% of the state’s manufacturing GDP and 77% of its manufacturing jobs. According to research from Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy, within the next 20 years, these regions could face nearly $20.8 billion in lost manufacturing GDP and over 116,000 job losses due to water shortages during a drought of record. The potential economic fallout underscores the need for immediate and strategic investments in water infrastructure to safeguard key industries and the communities that rely on them. Advocacy at the Capitol  Water infrastructure is one of the executive priorities for the Greater Houston Partnership for the 89th Texas Legislative Session. These priorities serve as a roadmap for the upcoming session, highlighting key areas of interest for the business community. The Partnership supports increased funding for the Texas Water Fund, preferably establishing a dedicated funding stream to ensure long-term, sustainable investments in the state’s water resources.   Learn more about how the Partnership advances strong policy that fosters long-term growth and upward economic mobility for the region.