1547 Critical Systems Realty today launched the McAllen Internet Exchange (MCT-IX), formalizing a localized traffic exchange inside the Chase Tower carrier hotel in McAllen, Texas. The move anchors a new interconnection layer at one of the most active U.S.–Mexico network aggregation points, bringing traffic exchange closer to where regional and cross-border networks already interconnect.
MCT-IX operates under ARIN-assigned ASN AS402079 and has already secured early port commitments from multiple networks. By placing the exchange directly inside Chase Tower, 1547 positions MCT-IX to reduce routing inefficiencies that currently push much of the region’s traffic out of market before reaching its destination. The launch coincides with rising network activity inside the building, including new carrier deployments, capacity expansions, and increased cross-connect volumes throughout 2025.
To support this growth, 1547 continues to invest in both infrastructure resilience and expansion. More than $6 million has gone into upgrades across critical systems, while new interconnection facilities and additional power and space are under development. The company is building 500 kW of new colocation capacity within Chase Tower alongside a 3 MW, 13,000-square-foot dedicated data center annex, with completion targeted for Q4 2026.
- Launched the McAllen Internet Exchange (MCT-IX) inside the Chase Tower carrier hotel
- ARIN recognition under ASN AS402079
- Early port commitments from participating networks
- Increased carrier deployments and cross-connect activity during 2025
- More than $6 million invested in power, HVAC, elevators, and fire/life safety upgrades
- New meet-me room and dedicated carrier room to support expanding interconnection demand
- 500 kW of new colocation capacity and a 3 MW data center annex under construction, targeted for Q4 2026
“Announcing MCT-IX is an important milestone for both 1547 and the McAllen market,” said J. Todd Raymond, CEO and Managing Director of 1547. “With formal ARIN recognition and early port commitments already underway, it is clear there is strong demand for an Internet Exchange that builds on the long-established interconnection ecosystem inside Chase Tower.”
🌐 Analysis
The launch of MCT-IX reflects a broader industry shift toward regional internet exchanges that localize traffic and reduce dependence on distant upstream hubs. Similar IX growth has emerged in secondary and cross-border markets as operators and cloud-adjacent networks seek lower latency and greater routing control. For 1547, the exchange complements its strategy of reinforcing carrier hotels with dense interconnection and incremental power expansion, positioning McAllen alongside other border-region hubs that are gaining relevance as data gravity and network diversity requirements increase.
