Elon Musk is close to making one of his biggest ambitions a reality — turning a small coastal Texas town into an official city named Starbase. This rural patch near the Mexico border, home to SpaceX’s rocket launch site, is the subject of a local vote that is widely expected to pass due to the small voter base — many of whom are Musk’s own employees.
The area spans just 1.5 square miles but has become the epicenter of some of Musk’s most ambitious plans, including building reusable rockets, sending astronauts to the moon and Mars, and transforming South Texas into a hub for the global space race.
Why Musk Wants a City
Musk floated the idea of Starbase in 2021, envisioning a self-contained community focused on innovation and space exploration. SpaceX’s goal: streamline operations, especially when it comes to closing roads and restricting beach access for rocket launches — a frequent occurrence due to safety regulations.
Currently, closures must be approved by Cameron County officials. However, two bills in the Texas Legislature could shift that power to the newly formed city, giving Musk and SpaceX more control.
Rising Tensions Over Public Access
While many residents and state officials support Musk’s vision, concerns are growing. Boca Chica Beach, known locally as the “poor people’s beach,” could become harder to access if the new city takes over.
Environmental groups and local leaders, including Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr., argue that handing over such control to a private entity is dangerous.
“This bill does not serve the public interest,” Trevino wrote in a letter opposing the move.
In fact, a Texas House panel recently rejected a key bill that would have shifted authority over beach closures to Starbase — marking a rare setback for Musk’s expansive influence.
Public Pushback and Protests
Environmental groups like the South Texas Environmental Justice Network have been vocal against the city formation and beach restrictions. Organizer Bekah Hinojosa said the group has faced resistance, including being escorted away by SpaceX’s private security while campaigning near the launch site.
“We’ve been sounding the alarm about Musk and SpaceX for many years,” Hinojosa said. “Now that the rest of the country is starting to listen, it feels like we’re finally being heard.”
Despite protests, the vote to establish Starbase is expected to pass easily.
What’s Next?
If the city is approved, Starbase will not only become a physical symbol of Elon Musk’s grand visions but also a test case for corporate-led urban development. Whether it thrives or triggers more controversy, one thing is clear — the eyes of the nation are on this small corner of Texas.
