Set to begin operation this summer, developers of a new rail hub that will straddle Bexar and Wilson counties said Mission Rail Park will cater to the Eagle Ford industry and other companies.
Terry Warth of San Antonio, who is marketing the project for lead developer Frontier Logistics, said the 1,000-plus acre park should attract a wide range of on-site manufacturers that rely on rail transportation for materials and distribution.
Warth said Union Pacific will be extending its main rail line to the site that is primarily ranchland right now, 100 acres in Bexar County near Loop 1604 and Old Corpus Christi Road, and the neighboring 900 acres in Wilson County.
He also said the new rail park could handle up to 50,000 rail cars annually.
Warth said other rail parks exist in the region, but he expects this will be largest development of its kind, with the potential of becoming the area's logistical hub.
"It's odd that we're getting a rail yard and we don't have rail in the county," said Marvin Quinney, the Wilson County Judge.
However, Quinney said his county's tax base stands to benefit from the rail park and the companies that will be doing business there.
In terms of infrastructure, Quinney said a four-lane road will be built from the site to 1604 on the Bexar County side, while an inferior two-lane road in Wilson County will see needed improvements.
However, Quinney said he doubts bringing materials in by rail will relieve the volume of Eagle Ford truck traffic.
Quinney said he expects the project will spur even more growth, much like what neighboring Karnes County is already experiencing.
"I see it coming. It's not here right now," Quinney said. "But I see a big impact."
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