On a hot day in South Texas, Bekah Hinojosa drives along Highway 4 towards Boca Chica Beach. Hinojosa, co-founder of the South Texas Environmental Justice Center, observes the construction and traffic that accompany the area’s rapid transformation. “SpaceX is rapidly colonizing and changing the entire landscape of Boca Chica,” she remarks.
The newly created city of Starbase, established in 2025 by SpaceX to grow its workforce and infrastructure, is considering adding 7,100 acres of land. This expansion includes both state and private property.
In April 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration approved an increase in SpaceX’s launches from its Boca Chica site. This includes up to 25 annual Starship/Super Heavy launches and various related operations. Elon Musk’s plan focuses on establishing a base for missions to the moon and Mars.
Starbase, which manages road access to Boca Chica Beach and nearby reserves during launches, aims to coordinate more effectively with government agencies, according to their documents. These agencies include Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, and others.
Environmental and Community Concerns
Hinojosa expresses her worries about the environmental impact of Starbase’s expansion while parked on a property targeted for annexation. Affected landowners, like 56-year-old Barbara Buckner, question whether resident interests can coexist with SpaceX’s priorities. Many residents oppose annexation, fearing it could mean more environmental harm.
“How can you be supporting residents when you work for SpaceX?” questions Buckner.
The mayor of Starbase and one of its city commissioners are employed by SpaceX, deepening concerns about conflicting interests.
Gerold Podraza, an 83-year-old landowner, shares his opposition: “The only reason why that’s happening is because they have leverage with politicians.” He refers to SpaceX’s political influence and potential negative community effects.
A past report stated that the Environmental Protection Agency found SpaceX violated the Clean Water Act. Tens of thousands of gallons of industrial wastewater were discharged into the area, causing environmental concerns for Hinojosa and others. She documents debris and metal shrapnel left from launches.
Future Decisions
Sofia Benavides, a Cameron County Commissioner, acknowledges the legality of Starbase’s proposed expansion. The city has until August 18 to gather feedback from affected landowners before holding public hearings scheduled for September.
Hinojosa and her organization are exploring legal options to oppose the annexation. “They call it Starbase,” she notes. “It’s the SpaceX annexation. SpaceX threatens the Rio Grande Valley, and we will continue to resist.”