Texas Approves Land Swap with SpaceX for State Park Expansion

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission has unanimously voted to exchange 43 acres of Boca Chica State Park for 477 acres near Laguna Atascosa, aiming to enhance conservation efforts.

• The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission voted to pursue a land exchange with SpaceX, swapping 43 acres of Boca Chica State Park for 477 acres adjacent to Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge.
• The decision has sparked opposition from South Texas residents and environmental groups, fearing potential harm to endangered species and loss of public beach access.
• SpaceX plans to use the acquired land for expansion, including employee housing and office space, as part of a massive project underway.
• Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. now supports the swap for conservation reasons, highlighting the biodiversity of the land the state would receive.
• Environmental and Indigenous groups have raised concerns about the swap limiting access to sacred areas and potentially violating the rights of Indigenous people.

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The Hill The Texas Tribune San Antonio Express-News