SpaceX plans to invest $100 billion to build what Louisiana officials describe as the world’s largest spaceport in Vermilion Parish, creating a massive new launch complex designed to support thousands of missions annually and significantly expand the company’s Starship operations.
The Pecan Island project is expected to create 3,000 direct jobs over the next decade with an average annual salary of approximately $92,600.
Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project could generate more than 8,100 additional indirect jobs, resulting in more than 11,100 new job opportunities across the Acadiana region.
The development will become SpaceX’s fourth and largest launch site.
At full buildout, the Louisiana campus is expected to include five launch complexes, each with two launch pads and a propellant farm, for a total of up to 10 launch pads.
The campus will also include a propellant production facility, power generation infrastructure, vehicle processing facilities, and residential housing for employees and their families.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027.
SpaceX is targeting the site’s first launch as early as 2029.
The project is intended to support a major increase in Starship launch frequency as SpaceX works toward making its fully reusable next-generation launch system operational at much greater scale.
SpaceX ultimately wants Starship to support missions ranging from Earth orbit and satellite deployment to lunar operations and eventual human missions to Mars.
The Louisiana facility could also support launches for orbital data centers and the expansion of satellite internet infrastructure.
Louisiana officials said the state offered several advantages for a project of this scale, including abundant natural gas that can provide energy and fuel, extensive acreage for future expansion, and a Gulf Coast location that enables access to a broad range of launch trajectories.
The project also represents a significant new use for Louisiana’s existing industrial and energy workforce as the state expands into commercial aerospace and advanced manufacturing.
The spaceport will be developed on property formerly associated with Exxon that the state sold to SpaceX.
The company has already begun working with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and other state agencies regarding potential impacts on wildlife, fisheries and surrounding habitats.
SpaceX also plans to work with conservation organizations and technical experts to identify measures to avoid, minimize and mitigate environmental impacts around the site.
The company plans to hold community town halls and other engagement events in the surrounding region as development progresses.
SpaceX has also announced a Starlink discount for Vermilion Parish residents.
Eligible new and existing customers are expected to receive a 50% discount on qualifying monthly Starlink plans, while new customers will not be charged upfront hardware costs.
The State of Louisiana offered SpaceX an incentive package tied to capital investment and job creation.
As part of the arrangement, SpaceX is expected to make a $25 million charitable contribution to the Community Foundation of Acadiana to address regional priorities and needs created by growth associated with the project.
SpaceX is also expected to participate in Louisiana’s Aerospace Facilities and Activities Rebate and High Impact Jobs programs while receiving customized recruitment support through LED FastStart.
The company has separately entered into a Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement with local taxing bodies.
Under that arrangement, SpaceX will pay Vermilion Parish $25 million annually for 25 years, with the payment increasing each year under an agreed escalator.
The company will also make an additional $20 million upfront payment.
Louisiana Economic Development expects the agreement to generate more than $820 million in direct local payments over its duration.
The $100 billion commitment represents one of the largest announced industrial investments in Louisiana and brings the state’s recently announced new investment commitments above $250 billion, according to Governor Jeff Landry.
For SpaceX, the scale of the planned campus reflects the infrastructure that would be required if Starship operations eventually move from relatively limited launches to a launch cadence measured in thousands of missions annually.
KEY QUOTES:
“We’re preparing to build a spaceport that, until now, has only existed in science fiction. SpaceX was founded to bring about a future where humans are out exploring amongst the stars, which will only be possible when we make going to space as routine as flying on an airplane. Starbase, Louisiana will unlock that future.”
Elon Musk, Founder And CEO Of SpaceX
“Today is a pivotal moment for Louisiana. This announcement pushes our state beyond $250 billion in new investment and puts us at the center of the next great frontier.”
Jeff Landry, Governor Of Louisiana
“SpaceX’s historic commitment to Louisiana is an undisputable signal to the world that we are executing at the highest level and leading in the next generation of industry.”
Susan B. Bourgeois, Secretary Of Louisiana Economic Development
“This project will create thousands of jobs, but its impact will reach far beyond employment. It will strengthen local businesses, create new opportunities, and positively change the economic trajectory of communities for generations.”
Troy Wayman, President And CEO Of One Acadiana
