Phase 1 approved for North Beach revitalization

An artist’s rendering of a proposed canal drainage project in North Beach in Corpus Christi. This version, with development, is estimated to cost $41.2 million and would be funded mostly through private investments. The City Council recently approved Phase 1 of solving the area’s flooding problem, setting aside $7 million to create an open space and channel for better drainage. Courtesy photo

Phase 1 approved for North Beach revitalization

By Chuck Hamilton

October 28, 2022

By Chuck Hamilton

October 28, 2022

A reimagined North Beach moved a step closer to reality after the Corpus Christi City Council approved implementation of Phase 1 of a proposed revitalization and drainage improvement plan.

This initial phase includes investing $7 million to create a linear open space and channel, committing $4.5 million toward elevation and improvements to Surfside Park, and using $2.5 million to raise and rebuild Gulfspray and Beach avenues.

A tourist destination for decades, North Beach is home to two major attractions: the USS Lexington and the Texas State Aquarium. Frequent flooding from changes in tides, rainfall, and poor drainage often leaves some roadways under water, creating a detriment to further development.

The city sees a channel as both a drainage solution and a catalyst for commercial development.

Even as Corpus Christi officials discuss and debate the North Beach plan, improvements are underway through other avenues. The DoubleTree by Hilton, 3200 Surfside, completed a multimillion-dollar renovation in late July and rebranded from a Radisson. Earlier in October, the North Beach History Plaza opened. The facility features bench seating, updated walkways, and sign panels with historic photos of North Beach.

chuck@thepicayune.com

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There are 1 comments.

TrueAmerican56 — October 29, 2022 @ 06:31 am

The problem with the plan is that it doesn't take into account Climate Change in all reality. Like most of the so called plans this city makes, high ideas that end up not working or cost way over what was promised, Outlet Mall, Aviator ball park, Schlitterbahn, downtown Bayfront roadwork and parks. The North Beach plan raises the central part a little, spends a lot of money that will probably not be enough, as usual city projects go, but the city uses a low number to get it passed. The city ignores the fact that North Beach doesn't need a channel, it needs a seawall around the entire land mass to survive long term.