CNG Fueling Station SAIA Houston New Time Fill Station

SAIA Motor Freight Line Inc is renovating its Houston terminal at 9051 Railwood Dr to install a compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station. The project, filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) as the CNG Fueling Station SAIA Houston New Time Fill Station, involves a $2,800,000 expenditure for 2,600 sq ft of site improvements. TDLR completed plan review in October 2026 and construction is scheduled to finish in June 2027, with work starting January 2027.

The scope of work focuses on adding 50 time fill spots to the existing pavement, requiring only striping for the new bays. The installation includes quick fill posts and hoses, a compressor compound, and storage vessels. Additional infrastructure consists of a backup generator, dryer, and new electric and gas connections. The site will also receive a new light pole, safety systems, fencing, and other minor site work to support the fueling operations.

Clean Energy serves as the design firm of record for this renovation. The project is privately funded on private land for private use, reflecting SAIA's internal infrastructure upgrade rather than a public utility expansion. The estimated cost of $2,800,000 places this project above the Harris County median for renovation and alteration filings, which stands at $250,000. The calculated cost per square foot is $1,077, significantly higher than the county median of $80 per square foot for similar work types.

The scheduled build window is 180 days, which is longer than the Harris County median of 92 days for renovation and alteration projects. This extended timeline allows for the complex installation of heavy mechanical systems like the compressor compound and storage vessels. The location is in ZIP code 77078, a area with a population of about 14,705 according to U.S. Census American Community Survey 2023 five-year estimates. The median household income in this ZIP code is $38,838, and the median owner-occupied home value is $151,500.

SAIA LTL Freight has operated in the region since 1924, with its Houston terminal listed at this address in company records. The addition of CNG fueling capabilities supports the logistics needs of the freight line. The project status is Review Complete, indicating that all necessary permits and plans have been approved by the state regulatory body. Construction is set to begin in January 2027, marking the start of the physical installation phase for the new fueling infrastructure.