Made in Austin: One of the most-powerful lasers in the world

One of the most powerful lasers on the planet will be built in a modest commercial building in North Austin.

National Energetics, created by a team of scientists from the University of Texas, has leased 30,227 square feet at NorthTech, 4616 W. Howard Lane.

Once settled in mid-summer, employees will assemble a $40 million ultra-intense laser system for the European Union’s Extreme Light Infrastructure Beamlines facility near Prague in the Czech Republic.

The 10 petawatt system will be the most…

Tax break hoped to keep Springfield co. from moving to Mexico

Ohio has approved tax breaks aimed at keeping a growing Springfield manufacturer local instead of moving to Mexico.

The Ohio Tax Credit Authority on Monday approved a tax break for Pentaflex Inc. as a part of its growing business operations. Pentaflex has proposed a 20,000-square-foot expansion of its facility at 4981 Gateway Blvd. which could mean 40 new jobs. The company will get a seven-year, 45-percent discount on its commercial activity tax.

“This expansion is the result of rapid business…

Private terrace-top pools planned for new Galleria-area luxury condo tower

A proposed luxury condominium tower in the Galleria area will feature six penthouse units with private swimming pools on their terraces.

Houston real estate developer Randall Davis plans to break ground in October on the Arábella, a 33- or 34-story luxury condominium tower on the site of the former Westcreek apartment complex, within walking distance to the River Oaks District, a ultra high-end retail development from San Diego-based OliverMcMillan.

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That $5M 'grant' for Two Light? It's actually part of a settlement

What has been referred to as a $5 million city “grant” supporting construction of The Cordish Co.’s second apartment tower on the south side of the Kansas City Power & Light District is partly a “settlement,” as well.

Cordish, the Baltimore-based developer of the downtown entertainment district, announced April 9 that because of the rapid lease-up of its One Light tower under construction at 13th and Walnut streets, it plans to start a second 24-story tower next year at Truman Road and Grand…

Wesco acquires Austin-area electric product titan

Wesco International Inc. has announced plans to acquire Hill Country Electric Supply.

According to data compiled by the Austin Business Journal, Hill Country Electric Supply is the sixth-largest privately-held company in Central Texas.

Financial terms of the deal between Wesco (NYSE: WCC) and Hill Country Electric Supply weren’t disclosed, but the company said Hill Country had about $140 million in annual revenue. Hill Country, which focuses on the commercial construction market, has nine locations…