Business Beat: CenterPoint’s $23.5 Million Investment in Longview Facility and Local Developments
Business Beat: CenterPoint Invests in Longview Facility
Published 10:45 PM Friday, October 10, 2025
In a significant boost for the Longview community, CenterPoint Energy has announced plans to break ground in December on a state-of-the-art gas service and training center, with an investment of nearly $23.5 million. The new facility, spanning 37,250 square feet, will be located at 5139 Tryon Road and will replace the company’s current leased location.
“This facility will serve as a vital resource for safety and technical training across the Longview region and surrounding areas,” said Grace Carter, a spokeswoman for CenterPoint, in an email. The center is designed to enhance workforce development, with 391 employees currently being trained across Texas for future roles in the natural gas industry.
Carter emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “This reflects CenterPoint’s ongoing dedication to delivering safe, reliable, and resilient service to the customers and communities it serves.” The facility will primarily serve CenterPoint employees, acting as a centralized hub for equipment and supplies, thereby improving response times and safety for crews servicing Longview and its neighboring areas.
Budget Blinds Expands with Acquisition
In other business news, Budget Blinds of East Central Texas, owned by Sam and Melinda Dunn, has expanded its reach by acquiring Budget Blinds of Tyler. This strategic move allows the Longview-based business to serve a broader area, including Tyler, Henderson, South Lake Cherokee, and surrounding communities.
“We are thrilled to bring Budget Blinds of East Central Texas to Tyler,” Melinda Dunn stated. “This expansion allows us to serve more families, builders, and designers with the same personalized service and innovative solutions we’ve become known for in Longview and Marshall.”
The company operates on a unique shop-at-home model, allowing clients to see how various fabrics and finishes complement their homes. Their central location at 1409 Lake Harris Road, Suite 1004 in White Oak, houses a warehouse, offices, and a design room available by appointment.
Council Awards Historical Designation
In a nod to preserving local history, the Longview City Council has granted final approval to designate the B. Franklin Martin House as a Local Historical Landmark. Built in 1933, the home is situated in the historical Nugget Hill District near downtown Longview.
Cody and Wendy Arnold, the new owners, are currently renovating the property, including a detached guest house and garage, which they plan to convert into an apartment while restoring the main house.
Mall Bar Wins Approval
Additionally, the Longview City Council has approved a permit for DeMarkus King to open The Plain Bar in Longview Mall. This neighborhood pub/tavern/wine bar will be located in a general retail zoning district, and King is also in the process of obtaining the necessary permit from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. He anticipates the bar will open in spring or early summer 2026.
Stay tuned for more updates in our next Business Beat column. If you have items for the column, please email newsroom@newsjournal.com or call (903) 237-7744.
