HUTTO, Texas — Blue Origin plans to invest an estimated $650 million in an aerospace manufacturing and research facility in Hutto, a project city officials say could bring as many as 2,000 jobs to Williamson County. Announced Oct. 8, the facility is expected to occupy about 1 million square feet in an existing industrial building along Highway 79, between Innovation Boulevard and Alliance Boulevard. The announcement did not specify a construction or opening timeline. The project adds to Hutto’s growth as a manufacturing and technology center along the Highway 79 corridor. Mayor Mike Snyder pointed to Tesla and semiconductor-equipment maker ASML as other major companies in the area, saying Blue Origin would add career opportunities as the city expands. Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp said the company aims to expand its Texas presence and draw on the state’s workforce. Gov. Greg Abbott said the expansion would support the company’s satellite communications network, though further operational details were not included in the announcement. The agreement also calls for Blue Origin to work with Hutto ISD on paid high school internships and support for Career and Technical Education programs. City officials said the programs could connect local students with aerospace and advanced-manufacturing careers. Cheney Gamboa, Hutto’s economic development director, said the city evaluates projects based on job quality, a diverse tax base and growth that benefits residents. The announcement did not provide details about the jobs’ wages, the public incentives involved, or how the project’s costs and benefits will be measured.