Texas Celebrates 190 Years: A Decade of Opportunity Awaits

Texas marks its 190th anniversary, entering a pivotal decade leading up to its bicentennial. This year also signifies a decade since the establishment of Texas 2036, a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing the lives and opportunities of all Texans. This dual milestone prompts a critical reflection on the state’s future, urging stakeholders to consider long-term strategies beyond immediate political cycles.

Over the past ten years, Texas has experienced significant growth, outpacing almost every other large state in the United States. The state’s population has surpassed 31 million, and its economy now exceeds $2.7 trillion. This growth has positioned Texas as home to nearly one in ten Americans, with corporate relocations and infrastructure developments particularly evident in North Texas.

As the state approaches its bicentennial, challenges accompany its rapid expansion. Increasing demands on water supplies and infrastructure, coupled with rising healthcare costs, have created pressures on the system. Many students graduate without clear pathways to high-demand careers, raising concerns about whether the state can adequately prepare for continued growth.

Texas 2036 was founded to address these pressing issues by adopting a nonpartisan, data-driven approach. The organization aims to foster discussions that lead to informed decisions, collaborating with leaders across business, education, and public service sectors to implement practical solutions.

Looking ahead, projections indicate that by 2036, the population could exceed 35 million. This increase will necessitate a rise in essential services, while trends such as advancements in artificial intelligence and challenges like housing affordability will shape the state’s economic landscape. Attracting new residents and businesses is only the initial step; ensuring that Texans are equipped to thrive in an evolving economy is crucial.

Success will be measured by tangible outcomes: children achieving literacy and numeracy at grade level, graduates earning credentials that lead to stable employment, families accessing affordable healthcare and housing, and communities benefiting from reliable infrastructure in water, energy, and transportation.

Over the past decade, Texans have taken significant steps forward. Voters approved investments of up to $20 billion in water infrastructure. State lawmakers have restructured community college funding to align with workforce demands, while access to healthcare has expanded, resulting in over 4 million Texans enrolled in Affordable Care Act marketplace plans.

The progress achieved is a testament to the engagement of voters and the commitment of elected officials to governance focused on real impact rather than political gain. Acknowledging that proactive planning is more cost-effective than reactive measures, the next ten years will reveal whether Texas can evolve into a state that not only grows in size but also enhances its competitiveness and prosperity for all.

Leaders across sectors are invited to join in asking the challenging questions now, working collaboratively on solutions that will broaden opportunities for future generations. Texas possesses the talent, resources, and experience necessary to act decisively. The choices made today will define the state’s legacy for years to come, underscoring a moment of substantial opportunity that history will remember.

Tom Luce serves as the founder and chairman emeritus of Texas 2036, while David Leebron is the president and CEO of the organization. They encourage public engagement and welcome feedback on these critical issues.