$50M Community Investment Announced for Deaf Smith, Roberts, and Gray Counties in Texas

Media Alert

Establishes permanent legacy funds and sustained annual support for local organizations in the Meitner and Roman Energy Center communities.

Intersect and Google have committed $50 million in long-term community investment across Deaf Smith, Gray, and Roberts Counties, home of the Meitner and Roman Energy Centers. The investment ensures benefits to the local communities for generations.

This $50 million commitment establishes permanent endowed funds intended for sustained, long-term community development and civic programs across the three counties. Specific funds are also allocated for grants associated with community priorities and sustained support of local events, sponsorships, and programs. This additional investment builds on Intersect and Google’s longstanding history of supporting local communities where they operate. 

The funds will be overseen in partnership with the Amarillo Area Foundation. A dedicated community advisory council comprising local residents and civic leaders will be formed to direct the grants, disbursements, and ensure transparent governance and local alignment to community priorities. 

A Community Needs Assessment will be conducted throughout the fall and winter to guide the council’s funding strategy ahead of the first official grant cycle in early 2027.

Quotes

​“I never imagined a generational opportunity like this, one that changes the trajectory of the region and demonstrates to communities across Texas what the right partner can make possible,” said Deaf Smith County Judge D.J. Wagner.

​“This investment will supercharge the incredible revitalization already underway in the community. People often ask me if these projects are good for the county and the region, and I tell them to come see for themselves,” said Judge Chris Porter.

​“This kind of commitment, overseen by the people who live here and who know what’s needed most, is what it looks like to be truly invested in a place for the long-term.” said Roberts County Judge Mitchell Locke.

​“Our goal is to be a long-term institutional pillar in the Panhandle and ensure our presence delivers direct, tangible benefits to the families and communities where we operate,” said Elizabeth Knowles, Head of Community Engagement at Intersect. ​“These funds are our commitment to show up for this region the same way it has shown up for us.”

​“Google is committed to being a supportive partner in the communities where we build, and that means investing in their long term future,” said Austin Hutchinson, Community Development Manager at Google. ​“These funds put decision-making directly into our communities and the organizations doing the important work.”