The recent upswing in oil and gas has propelled the once-quiet town of Orla, Texas, into a flourishing economic hub, with the local Pilot travel center leading the way as a beacon of this newfound prosperity. As evidence of the town’s boom, this Pilot location has been registering the highest sales within the Pilot Flying J chain since its opening five years ago, a clear sign of the town’s vibrant transformation.
Orla, established in 1890 along the Pecos Valley Railroad, is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to the oil and gas boom. This resurgence has brought with it a wave of new business and infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of residents and transient workers. With the introduction of new gas stations, dining options, housing units, and construction firms, Orla is quickly adapting to its role as a pivotal player in the region’s energy sector.
The town now serves as a critical stop for thousands of semis and a home base for the oilfield workers who have flocked to the region, drawn by the promise of black gold. The Pilot center, in particular, has become a cornerstone for these workers and travelers, offering essential services that keep them moving.
