Congressman Gonzalez Demands Transparency on Possible Fixed Selection Process for New Coast Guard Training Facility
South Texas deserves a fair shot to compete for a military facility that will support up to 15,000 personnel.
Contact: Alexis Torres
Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) demanded answers from the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, after receiving alarming reports that action was already well underway to secure land at a pre-selected location for a new training facility, and that the initial Request for Information (RFI) on November 10, 2025, to identify prospective locations was nothing more than a formality. In doing so, South Texas, which is a regional hub for Coast Guard operations, was effectively shut out from being fairly considered.
In the letter, the Congressman wrote, “This competition must ultimately select the most deserving applicant through a full, fair, and merit-based process. Regions like South Texas are prepared to compete on that basis. The Corpus Christi area—recently designated a Coast Guard City and home to United States Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi, United States Coast Guard Station South Padre Island, and United States Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Brownsville—has supported Coast Guard operations and border security for decades. Anchored by a strong military presence, including Naval Air Station Corpus Christi and Naval Air Station Kingsville, and backed by respected academic institutions, a skilled workforce, and a military-friendly community, our region understands how to deliver mission readiness while supporting service members and their families. South Texas offers the infrastructure, strategic location, and community commitment necessary to succeed; and deserves serious consideration in a transparent and competitive process.”
“That is why I was disappointed to learn that the Coast Guard has already placed an option on land that they intend to use for its new training center. To date, it is my understanding that no formal Request for Proposals has been issued. The Coast Guard must follow a clear, established process to ensure fairness and accountability. If a preferred location has already been identified that determination should be communicated immediately,” he continued.
To ensure transparency in this selection process and implications for prospective host communities, Congressman Gonzalez is requiring the Coast Guard respond to his questions by March 13, 2026.
The full letter can be read here.