Why Lubbock Is Quietly Becoming One of Texas’ Most Important Cities | Mayor Mark McBrayer
What makes @CityofLubbocktexas one of the most underrated growth stories in the state?
In this episode of @thebuildingtexasshow host Justin McKenzie sits down in Lubbock with Mayor Mark McBrayer for a deep, honest conversation about how this West Texas city is planning for the future — not just the next election cycle, but the next 100 years.
Lubbock is often associated with @texastech but as Mayor McBrayer explains, the city stands on three powerful pillars: education, agriculture, and healthcare — with a growing industrial and entrepreneurial economy now accelerating that momentum.
In this conversation, we explore:
Why Lubbock is one of the youngest major cities in Texas
How long-term water and infrastructure planning is shaping growth
Why Leprino Foods, the largest mozzarella producer in the U.S., invested nearly $1 billion in Lubbock
What makes Lubbock a magnet for businesses, families, and entrepreneurs
The role of downtown revitalization, culture, and civic investment
Why quality of life — not congestion — is driving the next wave of Texas growth
How Lubbock collaborates with other West Texas cities like Midland-Odessa and Amarillo
What Mayor McBrayer wants residents to look forward to in 2026 and beyond
This episode is for anyone interested in:
Texas economic development
Mid-sized cities and growth strategy
Water, infrastructure, and long-range planning
Entrepreneurship and business relocation
The future of West Texas
📍 Watch the full episode and join the conversation in the comments
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🔗 Helpful Resources Mentioned in the Episode
Lubbock Economic Development Alliance
Texas Tech University & Innovation Hub
University Medical Center & Covenant Health
Let’s talk Texas.
Where do you see the next wave of growth happening — West Texas or the Texas Triangle?
