ExxonMobil to build petrochemical plant outside Corpus Christi

PORTLAND, Texas (KTRK) -- Oil and gas giant ExxonMobil has chosen a coastal city near Corpus Christi as the site for its newest petrochemical plant.

The $10 billion plant will be built in Portland, Texas. It will produce components used in the manufacturing of polyester, antifreeze and plastic bottles.

During construction, ExxonMobil expects the plant to create more than a thousand temporary jobs. Once the plant opens, it will create 600 permanent jobs.

Proximity to the port of Corpus Christi and railroad networks and the area's large workforce contributed to the company's choice of location.

Before construction can begin, the project must receive federal and state permits, a process that could take two years. The plant is slated to open in 2024.

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