Pampa, Texas is transforming from a legacy agricultural and energy community into a strategic hub for data centers, renewable energy projects, and advanced manufacturing. Mayor Mike Borger explained in an interview how the city's natural assets—abundant wind, sunshine, land, and existing midstream energy infrastructure—are creating unexpected growth opportunities that position Pampa at the forefront of national trends in power generation and digital infrastructure.
According to Borger, Pampa offers unique advantages for data-center development, including grid resilience, renewable energy generation capacity, and proximity to critical gas pipeline networks. The mayor addressed common concerns about water usage and infrastructure strain, noting that modern facilities incorporate cooling technologies designed to respect regional constraints. This strategic positioning allows Pampa to compete for technology investments that require both reliable power and sustainable operations.
The city's economic transformation extends beyond industrial attraction to comprehensive community investment. A $130 million school improvement initiative includes new facilities and career-technology education programs designed to prepare graduates for high-paying, future-ready careers within the community. For Borger, reversing decades of out-migration through educational and employment opportunities is central to Pampa's long-term stability and growth.
Quality of life enhancements complement the economic development strategy. Regional events, festivals, and historic music venues tied to Woody Guthrie continue to draw visitors from across the Panhandle. Borger describes Pampa's role as a regional hub—what he calls the "Pampaplex"—that supports retail, tourism, and civic life for a population extending far beyond city borders.
Leadership alignment has been crucial to Pampa's progress, with unity across city, county, economic development, and chamber organizations creating momentum that matches capital investments. The mayor's experience since taking office in June demonstrates how coordinated optimism and strategic planning can transform legacy communities.
The full interview with Mayor Mike Borger is available now on YouTube as part of The Building Texas Show. Pampa's evolution represents a broader trend of Texas communities beyond major metropolitan areas leveraging their unique assets to attract modern industry while preserving local identity and creating sustainable opportunities for residents.
