Pearland Developments: Spring 2025

UNITED IMAGING EXPANDS TO PEARLAND’S LOWER KIRBY

United Imaging, a global leader in medical imaging technology, is expanding its manufacturing, R&D, and warehousing operations to Pearland’s Lower Kirby. The company has leased a 216,000-square-foot facility at 11550 N Spectrum Boulevard, further establishing Pearland as a hub for life sciences and advanced manufacturing.

Operations are expected to begin in late 2025, with up to 185 new jobs added over the next two years. “We are excited to welcome United Imaging to Pearland,” said Mayor Kevin Cole. “Their presence strengthens our growing life sciences sector and supports our goal of attracting high-quality jobs.”

United Imaging’s expansion highlights Lower Kirby’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment, reinforcing Pearland’s commitment to innovation and economic growth.

Read the full announcement here.

PEDC CELEBRATES BRIAN MALONE’S IMPACT AS HE RETIRES

After an outstanding career in economic development, Brian Malone is retiring from his role as Senior Vice President on May 30. For over 10 years, Brian has been instrumental in driving Pearland’s economic growth, leading efforts to attract new businesses, expand existing industries, and enhance workforce development.

Under his leadership, Pearland has welcomed major projects, including Lonza’s 300,000-square-foot biotech facility, Endress+Hauser’s new Regional Headquarters, and Millar’s expanded headquarters and manufacturing center. His work has helped shape Pearland into a thriving business hub.

Beyond his contributions to PEDC, Brian has been a dedicated leader in economic development across Texas, serving as a past Chairman of Team Texas and Vice Chairman of the Lower Kirby Pearland Management District.

PEDC is deeply grateful for Brian’s dedication and vision. We wish him the best as he begins this well-earned new chapter.

2024 OFFICER ELECTIONS

PEDC is pleased to announce the election of officers to its Board of Directors. At its December meeting, the PEDC board elected Michi Bruns Clay as Chair, Dena Hanks as Vice Chair, and JW Washington as Secretary for its 2025 Board of Directors. Their terms began on January 16, 2025.

Learn more here.

PEARLAND WELCOMES BURNS & MCDONNELL CONSTRUCTION ACADEMY

On February 13, Burns & McDonnell celebrated the grand opening of its new Construction Academy in Pearland with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This 14,000-square-foot facility serves as a training hub, offering online assessments and hands-on craft construction training to develop a skilled workforce.

The academy aligns with PEDC’s commitment to workforce development, a key initiative in the Pearland Prosperity Plan, our community’s economic development strategic plan. By equipping professionals with essential skills, the academy helps meet the growing demand for construction talent in our region. A permanent hands-on training facility is also planned for completion in Pearland by 2026.

This investment enhances career opportunities for local workers while supporting the continued economic growth of Pearland. PEDC looks forward to the positive impact the Construction Academy will have on workforce development in our community.

EDGE INDUSTRIAL PARK CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS CONTINUES

Construction is progressing at Edge Industrial Park, a 36-acre business park strategically located at State Highway 35 and McHard Road. Led by Stewart Development, the project will feature over 200,000 square feet of flex office, warehouse, and manufacturing space, bringing new business opportunities to Pearland.

PEDC has worked with Stewart Development since 2023 to support this key investment. In March 2024, PEDC, in partnership with the City of Pearland, finalized a development agreement to assist with infrastructure and site development.

As a priority within the SH 35 Corridor Redevelopment Strategy, Edge Industrial Park aligns with Pearland’s long-term vision for economic growth. The development will attract new businesses, create jobs, and strengthen the city’s tax base, reinforcing Pearland’s position as a hub for industrial and commercial expansion.

Learn more about the development here. 

PEDC ENHANCES TEAM TO ADVANCE PEARLAND PROSPERITY PLAN 

PEDC is pleased to announce key staff developments that will further strengthen the organization's efforts to advance the Pearland Prosperity Plan.

Valerie Marvin has been promoted to Vice President. Valerie leads the implementation of PEDC’s efforts on new development, redevelopment, and infrastructure projects, with a focus on Lower Kirby and the city’s major thoroughfares. She works with property owners, businesses, appraisers, attorneys, engineering, planning and environmental consultants and contractors to complete infrastructure improvements and beautification enhancements.

Johnathan Pollard joins the PEDC as Development Manager, focusing on the implementation of development and infrastructure projects. His expertise in project and budget management will be instrumental in enhancing infrastructure and connectivity, as well as strengthening Pearland’s overall quality of place. By collaborating with city departments and contractors, Johnathan will contribute to projects that enhance the city's functionality and visual appeal.

Please join us in congratulating Valerie and welcoming Jonathan.

2024 ANNUAL REPORT

Our 2024 Annual Report summarizes the corporation's activities over the past year and provides a glimpse into our continued efforts to shape our community’s future and ensure Pearland remains the community of choice in Greater Houston.

In 2024, PEDC helped drive significant growth, with nearly one million square feet of distribution and manufacturing flex space underway and $73 million in capital investment. New employers like Lonestar Electric Supply and Mission Building Systems strengthened the local economy.

On behalf of the PEDC staff and Board of Directors, we would like to thank the Pearland community for its support as we work to enhance our economic vitality through the attraction, retention, and expansion of primary employers and continue to ensure the creation of new opportunities for Pearland and its residents.

Read the full Annual Report here.

IN THE NEWS

Building Connections: How Pearland’s Innovation Hub Is Creating A Pathway For Businesses To Thrive 

Why Millar, Inc. chose Lower Kirby for its new headquarters

Houston Is Building A Workforce To Solidify Its Life Sciences Ecosystem

PEDC selects new officers, provides development updates 

WORKINPEARLAND LAUNCHES NEW APP

Finding local talent and opportunities is now easier with the new WorkInPearland mobile app. This on-the-go platform connects Pearland employers with skilled professionals, simplifying job searches and helping talent stay local.

Download the app today!

Apple App Store | Google Play Store

DISASTER-PROOF YOUR BUSINESS

Pearland businesses are invited to a free workshop focused on strengthening resilience ahead of hurricane season. “Disaster-Proof Your Business,” hosted by the Pearland Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Pearland Office of Emergency Management, will take place on May 6, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the University of Houston – Clear Lake at Pearland. 

Learn more here.

PEARLAND ENVISIONS THE FUTURE OF PARKS AND RECREATION

Pearland is taking exciting steps to update its Parks, Recreation, Open Spaces, and Trail Master Plan! This initiative will create a dynamic roadmap for the future of the city's recreational spaces, ensuring they continue to enhance our community's quality of life.

The updated plan will define the vision and values that guide Pearland's parks and recreation, shaping everything from facilities to programs. This proactive approach ensures Pearland remains a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

By incorporating community feedback and embracing best practices, Pearland is committed to creating exceptional parks and recreational opportunities for all. Stay tuned for updates on this important project!

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION FUELS THE PEARLAND MANUFACTURING PARTNERSHIP

The Pearland Manufacturing Partnership held its first meeting of 2025, bringing together local manufacturing leaders to address key sector challenges. These sector-specific partnerships provide a platform for sharing best practices and developing collective solutions, fostering a stronger manufacturing community in Pearland.

The next meeting is scheduled for June 2025. Businesses interested in participating can contact Mou Sarkar.

SALES TAX AND UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATE

Current period sales tax collections received in April 2025 were down 3% compared to the same period in 2024.

The unemployment rate in February 2025 was 4%, lower than the US and Texas unemployment rates of 4.5% and 4.3%, respectively, for the same period.