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SpaceX Plans Vermilion Parish, Louisiana, Launch Operations

08/29/2026
Rocket and spacecraft systems manufacturer SpaceX plans to establish operations in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. The $100 billion project is expected to create 3,000 jobs over the next 10 years.

The investment will include the construction of a new launch facility, featuring five launch sites with two launch pads each, propellant production and storage, power generation, vehicle processing and employee housing. Operations are scheduled to begin 2029.

“We’re preparing to build a spaceport that, until now, has only existed in science fiction,” said SpaceX Founder and CEO Elon Musk. “SpaceX was founded to bring about a future where humans are out exploring amongst the stars, which will only be possible when we make going to space as routine as flying on an airplane. Starbase, Louisiana will unlock that future. Thank you Governor Landry and the people of Louisiana for joining us on this journey, and for their help in the years ahead as we work together to build one of the most inspirational places on the planet.”

To support the project, SpaceX is expected to participate in Louisiana’s Aerospace Facilities and Activities Rebate and High Impact Jobs programs and will receive customized recruitment assistance through LED FastStart. The company has also entered into a Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement under which it will make an upfront payment of $20 million and pay Vermilion Parish $25 million annually for 25 years, with annual increases, generating more than $820 million in direct local payments.

“SpaceX’s historic commitment to Louisiana is an undisputable signal to the world that we are executing at the highest level and leading in the next generation of industry,” noted Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “Louisiana’s coast helps power America’s economy through the oil and gas industry. While opportunities in that industry have changed over time, the talent, ingenuity and work ethic that built it remain. SpaceX will tap into that same foundation of skilled workers and businesses, creating new career paths and economic activity in an entirely new sector while building on generations of industrial expertise.”

SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches rockets and spacecraft and operates the Starlink satellite internet network. The company develops reusable launch systems, spacecraft, satellite technologies, and related infrastructure for commercial, government, and national security customers.

“SpaceX’s investment is a defining moment for Acadiana and one of the most significant economic development achievements in our region’s history,” added One Acadiana President and CEO Troy Wayman. “At the heart of One Acadiana’s work is creating quality jobs that allow people to build careers, support their families, and create a future right here at home. This project will create thousands of jobs, but its impact will reach far beyond employment. It will strengthen local businesses, create new opportunities, and positively change the economic trajectory of communities for generations. One Acadiana is proud to have worked alongside Louisiana Economic Development and Vermilion local officials to help bring this transformational project to Acadiana. It is also a powerful example of Governor Landry’s ‘whole of Louisiana’ approach to economic development; bringing state, regional, and local partners together to compete for opportunities that can transform not just one community, but our entire state. We are grateful to SpaceX for their confidence in Acadiana and look forward to welcoming them to our region and to the generational impact this investment will have on Louisiana families.”

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