Pampa, Texas Emerges as Hub for Data Centers and Renewable Energy Development

Pampa, Texas is positioning itself at the center of America's next energy and data boom by leveraging its natural assets to attract modern industry. Mayor Mike Borger explained in an interview how abundant wind, sunshine, land, and existing midstream energy infrastructure are creating opportunities for data centers, renewable energy projects, and advanced manufacturing in the Panhandle community.

During the conversation, Borger outlined why Pampa is uniquely suited for data-center development, citing grid resilience, renewable energy generation, and proximity to critical gas pipeline networks. He addressed common misconceptions around water usage and infrastructure strain, emphasizing that modern facilities are designed with cooling technologies that respect regional constraints. The mayor described a convergence of forces reshaping the city's economic future, positioning Pampa not as a community catching up, but one moving onto the leading edge of national trends in power generation and digital infrastructure.

Beyond industry attraction, the discussion highlighted Pampa's investment in people through a $130 million school improvement initiative. This includes new facilities and career-technology education designed to keep graduates in the community with access to high-paying, future-ready careers. For Borger, reversing decades of out-migration is central to Pampa's long-term stability and economic success.

Quality of life represents another pillar of the city's strategy, with regional events and festivals drawing visitors from across the Panhandle and beyond. The city's role as a regional hub—what Borger refers to as the "Pampaplex"—supports retail, tourism, and civic life for a population far larger than its borders suggest. This comprehensive approach demonstrates how legacy towns can evolve, attract modern industry, and create new opportunities without losing their identity.

The full interview with Mayor Mike Borger is available now on YouTube as part of The Building Texas Show, a statewide series highlighting the leaders, ideas, and investments shaping Texas' next chapter. Borger reflected on leadership lessons learned since taking office, emphasizing the importance of unity across city, county, economic development, and chamber organizations, noting that alignment and optimism have been just as critical as capital investment in driving momentum.