PREPARED BY:
PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT FUND IMPROVEMENT PLAN - PORT HOUSTON AUGUST 27, 2026
August 27, 2026 Maria Aguirre Director Community Relations Port Houston Ms. Aguirre: The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region appreciates our partnership with Port Houston, and we want to thank you for supporting our mission to grow and market a vibrant regional economy. We are pleased to submit this information for review and consideration for funding in 2027 as part of Port Houston’s new Promotion and Development Fund Improvement Plan initiative. * This submittal includes the following requested data: 1. Introduction - Economic Alliance 2. Executive Summary 3. Audited Financial Statements Attached 4. Promotion of Port Houston and Support of Programs & Initiatives 5. Promotion of Port Houston’s Sustainability, SMWBE, and DEI Efforts 6. Workforce Development and DEI Activities 7. Membership of the Economic Alliance 8. Event Attendance 9. Port Houston Board and Taskforce Participation 10. Economic Alliance Location and service area zip codes 11. Promotional Flyers Attached Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional information or clarification during your review process as needed. Port Houston is a critical economic driver to our local communities, and we look forward to our continued partnership. Respectfully,
Chad Burke President and CEO Economic Alliance Houston Port Region
*A l l l i n k s w i t h i n t h i s d o c u m e n t a r e l i v e f o r y o u r v i e w i n g .
1. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE HOUSTON PORT REGION PORT HOUSTON ECONOMIC ALLIANCE HOUSTON PORT REGION Introduction/Background Economic Alliance Houston Port Region (Economic Alliance) is a nonprofit organization whose mission since 1986 has been to grow a vibrant regional economy. Supported by impact initiatives focused on: Economic Development Public Policy Workforce Development Transportation/Infrastructure Quality of Life Events/Thought Leadership Our structure consists of an Executive Board, an Elected Board and eight initiative chairs supported by members through their direct involvement. Our staff of eight works to carry out the directives of each of these bodies in the most efficient and effective way possible.
250 Private Sector Members, 13 Cities/Communities, Port Houston, and Harris County. 8 Taskforces. Several annual events convening leaders and highlighting one of the World’s most influential energy corridors and trade ports. 7 full-time and 1 part-time professional staff and 1 college intern.
The Houston Port region’s make up is so unique that there is not a blueprint of how to strategize to improve our economic development activities/assets, transportation infrastructure, workforce development entities and investment protections. For this reason, Economic Alliance has established itself as the convening entity in identifying, prioritizing, and promoting issues of Houston Port region significance.
2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Port Houston's success depends on more than world-class terminals. It depends on a region that attracts investment, develops talent, modernizes infrastructure, supports industry, and speaks with a unified voice. For more than 30 years, the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region has served as the region's leading economic development organization dedicated to strengthening the competitiveness of Port Houston and the industries that depend upon it. Together with Port Houston, Harris County, 13 cities and communities, and more than 250 private-sector members, the Economic Alliance has built one of the nation's strongest public-private partnerships focused on growing the Houston Port Region. This proposal respectfully requests continued support through Port Houston's Promotion & Development Fund. That investment enables the Economic Alliance to extend Port Houston's influence beyond the port gates by marketing the region to domestic and international investors, supporting business expansion, strengthening regional competitiveness, developing the future workforce, convening industry leaders, and advancing policies and infrastructure that sustain long-term growth. The following information demonstrates the Economic Alliance's role as: A trusted regional economic development partner attracting new business investment, supporting expansion projects, and strengthening future cargo opportunities. A powerful convener connecting Port Houston, Harris County, 13 cities and communities, more than 250 private-sector members, educational institutions, and regional partners to advance shared priorities. A champion for Port Houston promoting its initiatives through executive forums, economic development projects, newsletters, digital communications, and thought leadership events while highlighting the Port's role as a global gateway for commerce. A leader in workforce development, delivering more than 600 career presentations that have reached over 58,000 students and future workers while supporting Port Houston's workforce and community engagement objectives. A unified advocate advancing transportation, infrastructure, workforce, public policy, and investment priorities that protect and enhance the Houston Port Region's long-term competitiveness. A recognized thought leader, producing 19 events in 25/26 expected to engage more than 5,000 business leaders while providing Port Houston a premier platform to showcase its strategic initiatives, Foreign Trade Zone, infrastructure investments, sustainability efforts, and economic impact. Continued investment through the Promotion & Development Fund allows the Economic Alliance to expand Port Houston's reach, strengthen the region's competitive position, attract new investment, prepare tomorrow's workforce, and unite public and private leaders around a shared vision for sustainable economic growth. Together, we are not simply advancing Port Houston—we are strengthening one of the world's most important industrial, maritime, manufacturing, and logistics regions while ensuring the Houston Port Region remains the premier destination for global commerce and investment.
3. AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT
The Economic Alliance is an exempt organization for federal income tax purposes under the Section 501 (c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code. Revenues are derived primarily through contracts with area governments, membership dues and fundraising events. Expenses that are directly associated with a particular activity are charged to that activity. *See the attached audited financial statements of Economic Alliance Houston Port Region comprise the statements of financial position as of December 31, 2025, and 2024, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses, and cash flows for the years then ended, and related notes to the financial statements.
Annual Financial Report of the
DECEMBER 31, 2025, AND 2024
See attachment for full document
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
MARKETING PORT HOUSTON AS A GLOBAL GATEWAY Marketing Port Houston as a Global Gateway, the Economic Alliance website promotes the region as a destination for investment, highlighting businesses to the potential of direct access to Port Houston Port Houston supported the development of website content by supplying visuals and pictures to enhance the message that the Houston Port region is an ideal hub for companies needing worldwide distribution for their products, world- class infrastructure, and a supply of workers to minimize time, transportation, and distribution costs domestically and internationally. The website emphasizes: The nation’s busiest port supporting the largest petrochemical complex in the US Testimonial by Port Houston, CCO, John Moseley that provides a direct link to Port Houston’s website Need to prioritize infrastructure to support Port Houston’s unprecedented growth
A D I R E C T L I N K TO P O R T H O U S TO N ’ S W E B S I T E
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
SUPPORTING PORT HOUSTONS CONGRESSIONAL ENGAGEMENT As Port Houston looks to build capacity for the future as cargo demand continues to grow, the Economic Alliance partners with Port Houston, engaging with key elected officials to advocate for critical infrastructure investment support. May 6, 2026 Chad Burke attend the Port Houston and Gulf Coast Protection District meeting with US Congressman and Chairman Chuck Fleischmann (Chairman, House Appropriations Energy & Water Subcommittee) and shared an overview of the region’s economy and need for federal infrastructure support. Also present: Congressmen Randy Weber and Michael Cloud, the Big 10 energy companies, and regional stakeholders. May 18, 2026 Chad Burke attended the Port Houston Round Table with U S Senator John Curtis of Utah and conveyed the strength and strategic importance of the Houston Port Region referencing the need for federal investment in freight infrastructure projects that support global manufacturing and commerce.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT SUPPORTING PORT HOUSTON INFRASTRUCTURE FUNDING, GOODS MOVEMENT, MARITIME WORKFORCE, AND WATERWAY PROTECTIONS Over the past decade the Economic Alliance organized a leadership team to travel to Washington D.C. to advocate for issues important to Houston Port Region. This annual federal advocacy trip provides our industry members and community leaders exclusive access to members of the US Senate, Congress, and their staff, executive branch policymakers, and representatives from key federal agencies.
The Economic Alliance advocates for the Port Houston priorities of ongoing Federal funding and policies critical to the growth, maintenance, and operations of the Houston Ship Channel. Port support is the #1 priority of the 2026 Federal White Paper.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
PORT HOUSTON LETTERS OF SUPPORT Over the years Port Houston has requested support when seeking opportunities for funding and grants from Federal and State initiatives. Letters of support from local communities and industries is a key element for consideration. Economic Alliance has been proud to submit Letters of Support on behalf of the Port. Support for Port Houston’s Bayport Container Southern Access Road is an example of the Economic Alliance lending its voice on behalf of Port Houston.
Support for Port Houston’s Bayport Container Southern Access Road Chairman Beckendorff, HGAC Transportation Policy Council Chairman
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT FREIGHT MOVEMENT - TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE TASK FORCE
Economic Alliance convenes local/state elected officials, Port Houston, petrochemical association partners and private sector members to deliver.
Economic Alliance is making certain the Houston Port region is connecting mobility, safety, environmental issues, economic opportunity with Port Houston unprecedented growth. The mission has been to deliver TxDOT and key leadership a prioritized transportation/infrastructure project list based on stakeholder consensus and critical investment need. Economic Alliance has advocated for the study, funding and completion of transportation projects impacting Port Houston movement of product, enhancing safety and impacts on congestion and the environment.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
PLATFORM FOR PROMOTING PORT HOUSTON INITIATIVES Callie Barnes, Port Houston Director of Seaport Connectivity, was a featured guest on the Gulf Coast Growth Show. Season 110 that aired in July 2026. Callie discusses how Port Houston, Greater Houston Freight Committee, the Houston- Galveston Area Council, and the Economic Alliance are working together to improve connectivity, strengthen freight movement, and ensure the port region remains a global leader in industry and efficiency. Freight & transportation planning Port Houston infrastructure projects Highway 225 & SH 146 improvements Regional economic development Gulf Coast logistics & supply chain
C A L L I E B A R N E S , D I R E C TO R O F S E A P O R T C O N N E C T I V I T Y AT P O R T H O U S TO N
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT FREIGHT MOVEMENT - TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE TASK FORCE
GREATER HOUSTON FRIEGHT COMMITTEE The Economic Alliance CEO Chad Burke co-chairs the Greater Houston Freight Committee with Port Houston Director of Seaport Connectivity Callie Barnes. The committee is a collaborative public-private forum managed by Houston-Galveston Area Council that connects elected officials, industry experts, and private sector entities to support regional supply chain planning. It focuses on freight priorities, funding, and multimodal transportation needs across the area that impact Port Houston.
TEXAS HOUSE SPEAKER INFRASTRUCTUE ROUNDTABLE October 21, 2025, the Economic Alliance long with Baytran had the opportunity to host Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows to discuss the need for TXDOT accelerated project funding, long-term investments and coordinated regional planning to sustain jobs, exports, and the regional economic impact. Port Houston representatives included CEO Charlie Jenkins, Chief Govt and Public Relations officer Kerrick Henry, and Chief Strategy Officer Candace Armenoff. Jenkins shared data about the Ports growth and discussed the need for efficient movement of maritime freight and cargo to support the growth.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT FOREIGN TRADE ZONE AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOL Economic Alliance’s Economic Development services provide a professional relationship to navigate the multiple facets of the site selection/expansion process, including the facilitation to the Houston Port region economic development support network. In May 2026, Economic Alliance VP of Economic Development Chad Carson served as Moderator for the Pasadena Chamber’s Industrial Appreciation event that included Port Houston Economic Development Director Rina Lawrence who discussed the principles of FTZs and their role in economic development. Currently there are 16 economic development projects totaling over $3.8 Billion of capital investment and creation of over 2,200 new jobs in our project pipeline '26. Early stages of evaluating multiple locations across the Houston Port region/Ship Channel.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
GULF COAST INDUSTRY FORUM PROVIDING A STATE OF PORT HOUSTON OPERATIONS The annual GulfCoast Industry Forum has grown into a significant gathering of stakeholders engaged in the Petrochem, Maritime, Logistics, and Manufacturing industries and continues to be the premier local platform for knowledge sharing, networking and thought leadership around issues facing Port Houston.
16
750+
SPEAKERS/PANELIST ATTENDEES The conference began when Houston Port region leaders recognizing the need for a forecasting conference in the industry. They asked the RIC CAMPO Economic Alliance to produce a conference that would provide K E Y N OT E SPEAKER SINCE 2019 information for the over all industrial economy. The Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference (PMOC) was first introduced in 2010 and P O R T H O U S TO N E X H I B I TO R later became known as the Gulf Coast Industry Forum (GCIF)in 2016. B O OT H I N F R O N T O F 7 5 0 + Since 2010 the event has consecutively grown with more people in AT T E N D E E S attendance each year. In 2025, GCIF had over 750 people attend.
The Gulf Coast Industry Forum continues to highlight Port Houston activities/growth/investments and position as a world class trade operation with Chairman Ric Campo featured at the Keynote Speaker.
P L AT I N U M L E V E L S P O N S O R S H I P
R I C C A M P O ’ S K E Y N OT E SPEECH GCIF 25'
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
NEWSLETTER - THE CURRENT Economic Alliance distributes a quarterly newsletter highlighting Houston Port region businesses, partners, industry news/events, upcoming classesand workshops, and resources our office and partners provide. Economic Alliance newsletters have a distribution of more than 10,000+ recipients and provide the opportunity for Port Houston to feature articles about current news and promotion of programs 2025 Q3 – Port Houston article highlighting sustained growth and total tonnage data with a link to the full story. 2025 Q4 - Graphic demonstrating Port Houston’s future expansion plans including the study of a third terminal 2026 Q1 - Port Houston Advocacy Priorities focused on meeting with regional leaders to discuss path forward to fund transportation priorities critical to Port Houston
NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE
Q3 - 2025
LATEST EDITION
Q4 - 2025
Q1 - 2026
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT
PORT COMMISSION COMMUNITY ADVISORY COUNCIL Economic Alliance CEO and President Chad Burke continues to serves on the Port Commission Advisory Council (PCCAC) for the 2026-2027 term.
"Joining the PCCAC means becoming part of a collaborative council that brings together voices from across the Houston Ship Channel region to foster open communication and community engagement with Port Houston. Members play a key role in promoting dialogue, sharing perspectives, and helping shape initiatives that reflect the needs and interests of the surrounding communities." – Chad Burke
ANNUAL PRESENTATIONS TO 13 MEMBER CITIES HIGHLIGHTING PORT ACTIVITY Once a year Economic Alliances Chad Burke attends City Council or City Economic Development Corporation meetings to present an annual report to each of the 13 member cities. The presentation provides an update on economic development wins, workforce development activity, progress in transportation initiatives, and Port Houston economic activity and updates. These presentations provide local leaders and citizens in attendance with current information and insights that strengthens support for the Port and regional economy.
4. PROMOTION OF PORT HOUSTON & SUPPORT ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP BANQUET Port Houston was a Gold Sponsor of our Annual Membership Banquet that recognizes Economic Alliance stakeholders and installs officers for the upcoming year. Port Houston Gold Sponsorship highlights the recognition of current ship channel stakeholders and highlights the importance of the years accomplishments that have impacted the growth of the Houston Port region economy.
GOLD LEVEL SPONSORSHIP 4 7 0 AT T E N D E E S
5. PROMOTION OF SUSTAINABILITY, SMWBE & DEI EFFORTS
LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR PORT HOUSTON’S APPLICATION TO EPA CLEAN PORTS PROGRAM GRANT. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORT LETTER HIGHLIGHTED SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES. The Houston’s PORT SHIFT for zero-emission technology deployment includes deploying up to two hundred and fifty (250) zero-emission trucks, twenty (20) pieces of cargo handling equipment, associated hydrogen fueling and electric charging infrastructure Houston’s PORT SHIFT for climate and air quality planning includes a community-port outreach campaign to engage low-income and disadvantaged near-Port Houston communities in port region.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT Anchored in Action a Port Houston Community Investment The Economic Alliance is committed to supporting Port Houston’s community initiatives that will create positive impact in local underserved communities.
5. PROMOTION OF SUSTAINABILITY, SMWBE & DEI EFFORTS
PROGRAMS MAKING AN IMPACT ON MWBE EFFORTS Industrial Procurement Forum The Economic Alliance Business Growth Task Force promotes businessopportunities for local small and MWBE companies by hosting the Industrial Procurement Forum (IPF) twice a year featuring Owner and Contractor guest panelists. The panelists discussboth current and planned projects sharing information with the attendees on potential business opportunities they can pursue. Port Houston’s Director of Strategic Sourcing Erica Stephens-Lynch was invited to particiapate in a panel at the the May 21, 2026 IPF to share Port Houston opportunities for small and MWBE businesses. Port Houston and MWBE businesses participate in exhibitor booths highlighting services and business offerings.
Women in Alliance Committee Our mission “To provide a platform that highlights the exceptional women leaders and empower women in the Houston Port Region”. The committee hosts 3 lunches annually featuring local accomplished women who share their inspiring journeys to leadership. Port Houston and women owned businesses participate in exhibitor booths highlighting services and business offerings.
3
LUNCHES
420+
ATTENDEES
1,257
TOTAL ATTENDANCE
6. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND DEI ACTIVITIES MARKETING ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND EQUITY Effectively coordinate and carry out activities to communicate to the future workforce the path to obtain skills needed for skilled employment in the Houston Port region.
Activities by staff facilitate the promotion of workforce development initiatives to address the growing skilled workforce gap. Focused on marketing high paying careers in the petrochemical, maritime, logistics, and construction industries to local students to connect life changing employment opportunities.
Economic Alliance leverages partnerships with EHCMA and 9 community colleges to recruit and train a qualified workforce that is needed in the Houston Port region. Filling a key role with industry partners in identifying and prioritizing the high-demand, high-paying careers that support the petrochemical, maritime, and construction industries.
Addressing job attrition, skill enhancement, and demand through workforce development
6. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND DEI ACTIVITIES
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIPS Economic Alliance Workforce Development Manager serves on the Port Houston’s “Partners in Maritime Education” Board of Directors where her knowledge and classroom experience as a CTE Director offers best practices suggestions in program initiative outreach to the board.
Port Houston Representatives participated in the 2025 GCIF Student Breakfast giving 130 students from local ISDs and Community Colleges insight to careers in maritime and logistics
In 2025 the Economic Alliance hosted local CTE teachers and other educators to a day on the Port Houston MV Sam Houston to tour the Houston Ship Channel and learn more about the Maritime Industry. Port Houston Workforce Coordinator Devan Short spoke about the Four Sectors of the maritime industry and job opportunities at Port Houston.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY AND EQUITY OUTREACH METRICS
7. MEMBERS OF THE ECONOMIC ALLIANCE DIVERSE PARTNERS OF ECONOMIC ALLIANCE A driving force in the Houston Port region’s economic prosperity and successes are growing faster than ever due to the participation by our members. We convene a large, trusted network and well-connected organization.
8. EVENT ATTENDANCE MEMBER & COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES 19 ORGANIZED AND HOSTED EVENTS across ‘25/’26 in addition to our monthly taskforce and board meetings, provide members, industry leaders, and community stakeholders opportunities to network, gain knowledge, and engage in information sharing. Events such as the Industrial Procurement Forum provides insight to small and midsize businesses on how to do business with large industries including Port Houston. The Women’s Leadership event empowers women to succeed in industry, and the Gulf Coast Industry Forum have been well represented by key Port Houston team members.
19 EVENTS ‘25/’26
325 (YTD) AV E R A G E AT T E N D E E S
4,871 (YTD) TOTA L AT T E N D A N C E
9. PORT HOUSTON BOARD AND TASKFORCE PARTICIPATION BOARD AND TASKFORCE PARTICIPATION Economic Alliance has established itself as the convening entity in identifying and promoting issues of Houston Port region significance. With our member input Economic Alliance works to improve our economic development assets, transportation infrastructure, workforce development entities and investment protections. Port Houston Board Level Participation Executive Board of Directors Member: John Moseley, Chief Commercial Officer, Port Houston As a member of the Board of Directors Mr. Moseley represents Port Houston participating in board/membership meetings with voting responsibility. Mr. Moseley also serves on the Economic Alliance CEO advisory committee Transportation Infrastructure Task Force: Callie Barnes, Director of Seaport Connectivity, Port Houston Transportation Infrastructure taskforce that is a collection of local/state elected officials, Port Houston, petrochemical association partners and private sector members. Ms. Barnes co-chairs the Greater Houston Freight Committee with Chad Burke Public Policy Taskforce: Cam Rahm-Spencer, Director Gov’t Relations, Port Houston Our Policy taskforce follows a strategic and unified approach that is positively recognized at the federal and state levels. This approach is viewed as a means of assisting our representatives to identify and prioritize policy/projects that will have the most impact on the Houston Port region. Mr. Rahm-Spencer travels to DC with the Economic Alliance to advocate Port priorities. Workforce Development Taskforce: Jacquie Young-Hall, Maritime Education Outreach Manager, Port Houston Ms. Young-Hall participates in the discussions to formulate strategic workforce development issues. She also serves as the Port liaison to the Dream It. Do It. Southeast Texas program– a non-profit educational foundation created by the Economic Alliance to market careers in the petrochemical, maritime, logistics, and construction industries to local students to close the skilled workforce gap. Port Houston Board of Directors Member: Michel Bechtel As an active member of the Board of Directors, Mr. Bechtel attends bi-monthly board/membership meetings with voting responsibility.
10. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE LOCATION & SERVICE AREA ZIP CODES
203 IVY AVE DEER PARK, TX, 77536
ZIPCODES IN FOOTPRINT 77013 77015 77017 77029 77049 77089 77502
77503 77504 77505 77506 77507 77520 77521
77522 77523 77530 77536 77547 77562 77571
77581 77584 77586 77587 77588 77514 77560
77580 77597 77661 77665
HOUSTON PORT REGION
FEDERAL PRIORITIES 2026
Federal priorities for the Houston Port region strengthen the nation’s busiest export hub and global petrochemical center by modernizing infrastructure, boosting mobility, supporting workforce development, and securing critical imports to safeguard supply chains and U.S. competitiveness. PORT INFRASTRUCTURE $22M in BUILD grant funding through the FAST Program to accelerate Phase 2 of the Bayport Southern Access Road, strengthening a critical national trade corridor. H.R. 3705 / S.1278 to improve vessel safety and navigation in coastal waterways, reduce port disruptions and economic losses caused by low-visibility conditions. Equitable HMTF allocations to Energy Transfer ports, boost navigation project efficiency, cost savings, and ensure WRDA language prevents undue fees on districts. FREIGHT MOBILITY DRIVE Safe Act to train drivers under 21 to ease the trucker shortage. 6-axle, 91,000-pound trucks: Allowed on Interstates to move goods more efficiently. Surface Transportation Board reform: Expanding access to competitive rail, boosting freight mobility. INFRASTRUCTURE & TRANSPORTATION A surface transportation reauthorization signed into law in 2026 that boosts infrastructure investments, funding for the Highway Trust Fund, strengthened supply chains, modernized water systems, and common sense permitting. WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Fully fund/implement short-term Workforce Pell Grants along with recognizing the importance of funding workforce training programs and regional centers of excellence. COASTAL TEXAS PROJECT Request for $25 million in FY2027 federal appropriations for the project to enable USACE to assist with the design and environmental compliance for the Bolivar Roads Gate System and the West Galveston–Bolivar Peninsula Beach and Dune Systems. TARIFF EXEMPTIONS FOR CRITICAL INPUTS Federal legislation creating a clear exemption process for imported materials or equipment when no domestic alternative exists.
HOUSTON PORT REGION ECONOMIC ACTIVITY BENEFITS THE ENTIRE U.S. ECONOMY
20%
TEXAS GDP
$906B
U.S. ECONOMIC VALUE
#1 U.S. PORT Foreign & domestic tons 250+ COMPANIES Petrochemical, Manufacturing, Maritime, and Logistics SKILLED JOBS 1.54M jobs in Texas 3.37M jobs in U.S.
PORT INFRASTRUCTURE The Houston Ship Channel is an asset that facilitates the safe, efficient transport of American fuels, petrochemical products and goods that connect not only U.S. industries but also countless consumers to global markets. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS $22M in BUILD grant funding through the FAST Program to accelerate Phase 2 of the Bayport Southern Access Road, strengthening a critical national trade corridor. IMPACTS Reduction of truck congestion strengthening national supply chains. Improve how fog advisories are communicated to decision‑makers in maritime industries, coastal communities, and emergency management. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS H.R. 3705 / S.1278 to improve vessel safety and navigation in coastal waterways, reduce port disruptions and economic losses caused by low-visibility conditions. IMPACTS Strengthens supply chain reliability. Ensure WRDA language prevents undue fees on navigation districts while supporting equitable HMTF allocations to Energy Transfer ports and cost savings through greater contract flexibility and reduced administrative burdens. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS Equitable HMTF allocations to Energy Transfer ports, boost navigation project efficiency, cost savings, and ensure WRDA language prevents undue fees on districts. IMPACTS Funding stability for the supply chain.
FREIGHT MOBILITY The U.S. chemical industry is growing, adding 1M+ shipments annually and 600K+ extra truck trips each year. Rail policies haven’t been updated in 40 years, limiting safe, competitive access. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS DRIVE Safe Act to train drivers under 21 to ease the trucker shortage. 6-axle, 91,000-pound trucks: Allowed on Interstates to move goods more efficiently. Surface Transportation Board reform: Expanding access to competitive rail, boosting freight mobility. IMPACTS Safe, efficient, and competitive freight transportation. INFRASTRUCTURE & TRANSPORTATION Despite recent progress, U.S. infrastructure still receives a C grade from the American Society of Civil Engineers, underscoring the need for continued investment and modernization. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS A surface transportation reauthorization signed into law in 2026 that boosts infrastructure investments, funding for the Highway Trust Fund, strengthened supply chains, modernized water systems, and common sense permitting. IMPACTS Strengthened infrastructure investment, supply chains, and manufacturing competitiveness.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT With the expansion of Port Houston and continued industrial growth it’s important that our colleges meet job demand, attrition and skill enhancement that provides economic opportunity to students. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS Fully fund/implement short-term Workforce Pell Grants along with recognizing the importance of funding workforce training programs and regional centers of excellence. IMPACTS Develop workforce pipelines for maritime, supply chain, advanced manufacturing, and petrochemical operations.
COASTAL TEXAS PROJECT Authorized by Congress in 2022, is the largest coastal protection effort in U.S. history. The project protects coastal communities, critical ecosystems, and nationally significant energy and industrial infrastructure. Partners include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Texas General Land Office, and the Gulf Coast Protection District. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS Request for $25 million in FY2027 federal appropriations for the project to enable USACE to assist with the design and environmental compliance for the Bolivar Roads Gate System and the West Galveston–Bolivar Peninsula Beach and Dune Systems. IMPACTS Protect the region from storm surge, safeguard nationally significant industrial infrastructure, and strengthen longterm coastal resilience.
TARIFF EXEMPTIONS FOR CRITICAL INPUTS Industries across the Houston port region report rising costs due to tariffs on imported raw materials and equipment. ECONOMIC ALLIANCE SUPPORTS Federal legislation creating a clear exemption process for imported materials or equipment when no domestic alternative exists. IMPACTS Prevent delays in expansion projects, reduces cost burdens on U.S. manufacturers, and maintain global competitiveness.
HOUSTON PORT REGION LEADERSHIP / ATTENDEES ELECTED OFFICIALS, GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & SUPPORT STAFF Dennis Paul, Texas House of Representatives, State District 129 Adrian Garcia, Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2 Mike Lykes, Chief of Staff, Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2 Hank Dugie, Galveston County Commissioner Precinct 3, Baytran Charles Johnson, Mayor, City of Baytown TX Jason Reynolds, City Manager, City of Baytown TX Jacob Powell, Councilman, City of Baytown TX Thomas Reeves, Director Public Affairs, City of Baytown TX Jim Sweeney, Mayor, City of Seabrook TX Michel Bechtel, Pres., Gulf Coast Protection District, Former Mayor, City of Morgan's Point Coalter Baker, Executive Director, Gulf Coast Protection District Emily Williams, Government Relations Specialist, Gulf Coast Protection District
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS Hector Rivero, President & CEO, Texas Chemistry Council Mia McCord, VP Govt Affairs, Texas Chemistry Council MaryJane Mudd, Executive Director, East Harris County Manufacturers Association Amy Skicki, President & CEO, BayTran Stephen Reynolds, Director Public Policy, Greater Houston Partnership Elizabeth Hale, Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Authority Patrick Anderson, Proventure Consultants, Gulf Coast Authority
EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Robert Baker, Prof Maritime Bus Admin, Texas A&M Galveston Christian Bionat, Vice Chancellor, San Jacinto College Jeff Pearce, Coordinator Education and Workforce, San Jacinto College Robyn Cardwell, Asst Vice Chancellor Biotech, San Jacinto College John Stauffer, Associate Vice Chancellor Maritime, San Jacinto College
PORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Cam Rahmn-Spencer, Director Government Affairs, Port Houston Matt Glass, 2nd Officer, Houston Pilots Shareen Larmond, President, West Gulf Coast Maritime Assn
PRIVATE SECTOR Russell Carter, Director, Business Development, Bohler Engineering Tim Berry, Marine Superintendent, ExxonMobil Vincent DiCosmino, Corporate VP, Targa Resources Andrew Healy, Sr Manager Federal Govt Relations, LyondellBasell Tim Vail, Water Group Director, HDR Inc. Andrew Maxa, Sr Project Mgr, Ports & Maritime, HDR Inc. Kevin Merrill, VP Operations, Teadit Group Robbie Riggs, President & CEO North America, Teadit Group Mark Ruffin, VP Sales and Engineering, Teadit Group
ECONOMIC ALLIANCE HOUSTON PORT REGION Chad Burke, President & Chief Executive Officer Chad Carson, VP Economic Development Karen Gregory, Government Contracts Manager Kailyn Gonzales, Business Systems Analyst & Executive Assistant
203 IVY AVENUE., DEER PARK, TEXAS | 281.476.9176 | ALLIANCEPORTREGION.COM
Justin Beckendorff Transportation Policy Council Chair Houston-Galveston Area Council 3555 Timmons Ln. Houston, TX 77027 Dear Chairman Beckendorff: On behalf of the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, I want to express our firm support for including the following projects in the 2045 Regional Transportation Plan Update:
TxDOT SH 225 redevelopment, IH 610 Ship Channel Bridge replacement, and the Bayport Container Terminal Southern Access Road
Houston Ship Channel related businesses generate more than $439 billion in statewide economic value which equated to 18.6% of the State’s GDP (Martin Associates study 2022).
Freight movement in the region continues to grow as petrochemical productions grows and imports rise year over year. This has been clearly demonstrated by the 100% increase in containers through Port Houston from 2016 to 2022 (2 million TEU’s to 4 million TEU’s).
If freight capacity on our roadways in the Houston Region is not expanded and regional growth is stifled due to congestion, we put at risk a possible $200 billion in new economic value by 2032 (based on projections from the Martin Associates studies).
Given the critical nature of these projects to the region that is home to the world’s largest petrochemical complex and the nation’s busiest port, we strongly support including these three vital development projects in the RTP. Thank you for your consideration, Chad Burke President & CEO Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Cc: Mr. Steve Alvis, Member, Texas Highway Commission
203 Ivy Avenue, Suite 200 • Deer Park, Texas 77536 • (281) 476-9176 www.allianceportregion.com
CLICK HERE Pasadena Convention Center 7 9 0 2 F a i r m o n t P k w y, P a s a d e n a , T X 7 7 5 0 7 Doors open at 7am Welcome Introductions 9Am
T H U R S D AY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
STATE OF THE CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
PETROCHEMICAL LEADERSHIP PANEL
PREM VUTHANDAM Interim CEO
TODD BEHNE Plant Manager, Ingleside Plant, Gregory, TX
LUCA BALBO Global Director of Operations for Industrial Intermediate & Infrastructure
JIM GRIFFIN (PANEL MODERATOR) Associate Vice Chancellor, Sr. VP. San Jacinto College – LyondellBasell CPET
ELI LILLY PROJECT PANEL
DIANE TENNENHOUSE Site Head
RYAN MCCORD President
KEYNOTE
KEYNOTE
DAWN BUCKINGHAM Texas Land Commissioner
MAYOR JOHN WHITMIRE City of Houston
CHRIS JAHN President & CEO
HECTOR RIVERO President & CEO
STATE OF THE PORT
DR. BRENDA HELLYER Chancellor
STEVE KEAN President
RIC CAMPO Chairman of the Port Commission
FIRESIDE CHAT
PETER HUNTSMAN CEO
RYAN SITTON CEO/Founder
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
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‘26 annual membership banquet thursday, february 12, 2026 6:00pm - registration / networking 7:00pm - dinner & program
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PRESENTING | GOLD | BOARD GIFT | SILVER | BRONZE | PHOTO BOOTH LOCATION: SAN JACINTO COLLEGE, LYONDELLBASELL CPET - 7901 W. FAIRMONT PKWY, PASADENA, TX 77507
May 28, 2024 Administrator Michael S. Regan United States Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20460 RE: Clean Ports Program Proposal Dear Administrator Regan: The Port of Houston Authority (the Port Authority) has applied for a grant under the EPA Clean Ports program for the implementa on of Ports Op mizing Resilient Transporta on through Sustainable, Human, Innova ve, and Forward-looking Technology (PORT SHIFT) program. We are pleased to add our support for this project as it provides benefits to the U.S. and Texas, as well as supports the administra on’s priori es of safety, climate change and sustainability, equity and environmental jus ce, and workforce development. This ambitious program is in answer to EPA’s ~$3 billion grant program to fund zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure as well as climate and air quality planning at U.S. ports. PORT SHIFT, a Port Houston program is asking EPA for ~$348 million on behalf of the port and their partners who are jointly contributing ~$87 million for a total project cost of ~$435 million. The PORT SHIFT applications to EPA are in two parts: 1.
HOUSTON’s PORT SHIFT for zero-emission technology deployment includes deploying up to two hundred and fi y (250) zero-emission trucks, twenty (20) pieces of cargo handling equipment, associated hydrogen fueling and electric charging infrastructure, two workforce development programs suppor ng needed skills for new technology deployment, and shore power readiness at two (2) wharves at the Bayport Container Terminal.
2.
Houston’s PORT SHIFT for climate and air quality planning includes a community-port outreach campaign to engage low-income and disadvantaged near-Port Houston communi es in port region: climate ac on planning, workforce engagement, organiza onal capacity building and tools for more self-directed decisions impac ng their land, environment, and quality of life. The program also includes an enhanced emission inventory, a truck outreach program, and a Port-area energy capacity-demand analysis.
Should US EPA select this project for a Clean Ports Program award, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region will support this program’s proper integra on and work with the Port in plans for con nued execu on of PORT SHIFT. Sincerely,
Chad Burke President & CEO Economic Alliance Houston Port Region
203 Ivy Avenue, Suite 200 • Deer Park, Texas 77536 • (281) 476-9176 www.allianceportregion.com
INDUSTRIAL PROCUREMENT FORUM THURSDAY, MAY 21 7AM - 10AM TURN CONNECTIONS INTO CONTRACTS – MEET EPC PROCUREMENT LEADERS
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WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON WEDNESDAY, JULY 30, 2025 | 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM San Jacinto College - LyondellBasell Center for Petrochemical, Energy, & Technology 7901 W Fairmont Pkwy, Pasadena, TX 77507
COMMISSIONER LESLEY BRIONES LEADING WITH PURPOSE: Lesley’s journey and leadership as County Commissioner of Harris County Precinct 4..
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REGISTRATION, SPONSORSHIPS, BOOTHS & PURSE RAFFLE TICKETS AVAILABLE! PRESENTING SPONSOR: $4,000 | EVENT SPONSOR: $2,500 ATTENDEE GIFT SPONSOR: $500 Member Individual Ticket: $90 | Non-Member Individual Ticket: $115 Member Table of 8: $700 | Non-Member Table of 8: $850 Exhibitor: $300
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For more information please contact Marisela Ramirez at marisela@allianceportregion.com | 3% Processing fee for online registration / 72 hour cancellation notice required