In an announcement, the Brownsville Navigation District board of commissioners – the governing body for the Port of Brownsville – said the option will allow Big River to continue its due diligence as it weighs construction of a new plant or expanding its existing facility in Arkansas. 

The Port of Brownsville is a deepwater seaport at the U.S.-Mexico border. It transships more steel into Mexico than any other U.S. port. 

“This is good news for Brownsville and the result of hard work by many individuals and organizations over a long period of time,” said John Wood, the navigation district’s board chairman. 

“We are excited about this step forward and remain confident the venture will be beneficial for all parties, for Brownsville and the Rio Grande Valley,” he said. 

A Big River spokesperson declined comment. 

"Big River Steel does not comment on specific actions as it evaluates various growth opportunities," the spokesperson said. 

However, Big River chief commercial officer Mark Bula in March said he expects the company to make a decision on an expansion this year.