10-30-2025 11:20pm

TxDOT Paris District named 2025 Industry of the Year at Chamber Celebration

Dustin Terry Editor

TxDOT Paris District named 2025 Industry of the Year at Chamber Celebration

The Paris Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) has named the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Paris District as the 2025 Industry of the Year, announced Tuesday at the 122nd Lamar County Chamber of Commerce Celebration.

The honor recognizes organizations that drive job growth, investment, and community development across Paris and Lamar County. Though the award traditionally goes to private companies, PEDC highlighted TxDOT’s sustained impact as a public-sector partner.

In August, TxDOT Paris District opened a new 120,000-square-foot campus consisting of 12 buildings at the Gene Stallings Business Park, transitioning from City-owned offices at the conclusion of a long-term lease. PEDC cited the facility’s economic footprint:

160 high-quality jobs
$10 million in annual payroll
An estimated $500 million in economic impact over the next decade

“Historically, this award is presented to private industry; however, this year we are proud to recognize a public partner that has met and exceeded those same standards in job growth, innovation, and lasting investment,” said PEDC Executive Director Maureen Hammond. “Their new facility is much more than a set of buildings.”

PEDC Board Chair Josh Bray underscored TxDOT’s strategic value for local employers: “Lamar County’s manufacturing base is three times that of surrounding counties. Our need for a strong logistics partner as industry growth accelerates is more urgent than ever. TxDOT choosing Paris as its district headquarters is a win for our community and our future.”

Accepting the award on behalf of TxDOT was Dan Perry, Director of Transportation Planning and Development.
“Our 108-year relationship between the TxDOT Paris District and the City of Paris, Lamar County and the Paris Economic Development Corporation is more than just a collaboration—it’s a partnership built on a shared vision,” Perry said. “We look forward to the next century from right here in Paris, continuing this great relationship and delivering the vital projects needed to ensure Paris, Lamar County, and Northeast Texas prosper.”

The PEDC has previously honored employers including Universal Fabricating, Delco Trailers, and American Spiralweld. As a Type A economic development organization, PEDC’s mission is to plan, promote, finance, and build opportunities that enhance employment, expand the local tax base, and improve quality of life in Paris and Lamar County.

For more information, contact Sarah Moore at PEDC at (903) 784-6964 or smoore@selectparistexas.com. Learn more at selectparistexas.com.