In a remarkable odyssey of almost two centuries, a rugged and remote frontier outpost named for one of its many native tribes has been transformed into a major center of high technology and international commerce. From cattle to cotton to oil to electronics, Texas has repeatedly reoriented its business complex to meet evolving needs and circumstances. Even given the Lone Star State's remarkable capacity to adjust, the current period is one of unprecedented challenges (and opportunities).

Recent weakness, coming on the heels of a decade of remarkable progress, has led to increased dialog and efforts to proactively promote business expansion. During the 2001 legislative session, Texas lawmakers enacted House Bill 931 which provided for Texas Economic Development (TxED), the State's tourism and business development agency, to prepare an economic development plan. At the request of TxED, we agreed to prepare this analysis on a pro bono basis.

The study includes analysis of a broad range of issues; in many cases the discussion includes quantification of specific costs or benefits. In this summary, recommendations are followed by brief highlights of some of the major findings from this endeavor; the full report contains extensive detail on a wealth of topics which impact the future of Texas.

For more details please refer to the full report.