Dear Friend of the Port,
The Port of Brownsville continues to grow as a vital force in regional and international trade. As Port Director and CEO, I am proud to share the progress made possible by the hardworking people who power our success every day.
In 2024, the port moved more than 28 million tons of cargo, a sharp increase from 18.1 million tons the previous year. This remarkable growth reflects not only the strength of our infrastructure and private investment, but also the dedication and expertise of our workforce.
We also recorded 2,322 vessel calls, 95,000 railcar movements, and 450,000 truck crossings through the port.
These milestones reinforce our role as a critical link in the global supply chain and a key driver of the regional economy. The US Army Corps of Engineers ranked the Port of Brownsville 41st among the nation's top 150 maritime ports for waterborne cargo - a recognition that underscores our continued momentum.
As the only deep water seaport on the US-Mexico border, the Port of Brownsville serves as a gateway for trade, a magnet for investment and a catalyst for opportunity across South Texas. Today, more than $20 billion dollars in projects are in the pipeline, promising to further transform the economic landscape of our region.
We are also witnessing important advancements in industries such as manufacturing, renewable energy and shipbuilding, further strengthening our position as a leading economic engine in the Rio Grande Valley. These forward-looking developments highlight the port's strategic advantages and wide-ranging benefits.
Building on these successes, the future of the Port of Brownsville is brighter than ever. I look forward to sharing these achievements with our community and stakeholders as we move together into a new era of economic prosperity.
On behalf of the Port of Brownsville, thank you for your continued interest and support in the port that works.
Respectfully,
William Dietrich
Port Director and CEO
Port of Brownsville.
Editor's Note: The above commentary was penned by William Dietrich, port director and CEO of Brownsville Navigation District. The commentary first appeared as a cover letter to the Port of Brownsville's 2026 Directory.
