Strategic Location and a Vision for Growth

Strategically positioned on the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway between the Ports of Brownsville and Corpus Christi, the Port of Port Mansfield offers unparalleled access for commerce, industry, and recreation. Managed by the Willacy County Navigation District, the Port of Port Mansfield is capable of supporting diverse operations—from agricultural exports and bulk materials to NAFTA-related cargo and potential spaceport ventures. With over 1,760 acres of developable land, long-term commercial leases, and proximity to international markets, the Port of Port Mansfield provides businesses with a competitive edge, fostering job creation and economic prosperity for all of South Texas while maintaining a commitment to sustainable growth. From agricultural exports to international trade, the Port of Port Mansfield stands ready to drive opportunity for all of Willacy County—Raymondville, Lasara, San Perlita, and beyond—while ensuring sustainable development and environmental stewardship for generations to come.

Key Locations Along the
Texas Intracoastal Waterway (IIW)

The IIW is a 1,180-mile protected waterway paralleling the Gulf Coast, vital for shipping, oil and gas transport, and military logistics. The Port of Port Mansfield, located in Willacy County (~27.07° N, 97.42° W), is a smaller jettison port focused on fishing and dredging, strategically positioned as a “chokepoint” midway between major South Texas hubs and the border.

Port/Facility
Approximate Distance from Port Mansfield (miles)
Relation to IIW & Border
Port of Brownsville
50 south
Southern anchor; closest major port to US/Mexico border (Rio Grande ~20 miles south); handles bulk cargo, autos; key for cross-border trade.
Port Isabel
45 south
Adjacent to Brownsville; supports ferry/light cargo; enhances border access via Hwy 100.
Port Mansfield
-
Central spot; ~40 nautical miles from Mexican border at Matamoros; ideal for mid-coast ops, less congested than larger ports.
Port of Harlingen
25 south
Inland connector via Arroyo Colorado; logistics hub for ag/rail; ties into IIW for short-haul.
Port of Corpus Christi
67 north
Major energy exporter (LNG, oil); IIW hub for deep-draft ships; contrasts Mansfield's shallow-draft role.

This positioning makes the Port of Port Mansfield a tactical “backup” for border-related maritime operations, helping avoid bottlenecks at Brownsville during high-traffic periods (e.g., trade surges).

Strategic Advantage

The Port of Port Mansfield features a 17-foot authorized depth in the federal channel, extending 9 miles to the Gulf of Mexico, and a 700-foot-wide channel protected by barrier islands. This strategic location, just 1 mile from the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, positions the Port of Port Mansfield as a key player in maritime activities, connecting the region to major waterways that extend across the U.S. The Port is equipped to handle a variety of vessels and barges, offering substantial waterside access and land for barge and small ship operations.

Strategically located between the Ports of Brownsville and Corpus Christi, the Port of Port Mansfield presents several potential opportunities for commercial port properties, including warehousing, trucking services, handling of project cargoes, and more. These opportunities provide a foundation for future economic diversification and growth.

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Harbor Business

Under the governance of the Willacy County Navigation District, the Port of Port Mansfield benefits from a synergy between port facilities and municipal responsibilities, ensuring a holistic approach to community and port development.

Looking to the future of Willacy County, the Port of Port Mansfield remains committed to strategic planning, business development, and infrastructure investment to ensure continued growth as a premier residential, recreational, and commercial hub serving all residents of Willacy County.

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