For years, the Port of Corpus Christi has diligently prepared to establish a seawater desalination facility on Harbor Island, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the project. However, the Port has no intention of owning or operating the plant itself. Instead, it aims to facilitate the project by securing the necessary permits for its development, ensuring a stable and long-term vision for the region’s water supply.
“We’re not building a desal plant. What we are doing is creating optionality for the region by continuing to pursue permits, which we’re allowed to do because it’s our property,” Port CEO Kent Britton explained during a presentation to the Corpus Christi City Council on August 20, 2024.
Permits and Partnerships
The Port of Corpus Christi already holds one permit and is working to obtain more. They hope the City of Corpus Christi or a third-party entity will be responsible for building, owning, and operating the desalination plant. This facility could significantly address the region’s growing demand for water, providing a promising solution. “I think that’s what we’re all looking for—more water supply at the most economical rate we can provide,” stated John Byrum, Executive Director of the Nueces River Authority (NRA).
On September 5, Byrum submitted a proposal to the Port of Corpus Christi, requesting a lease of Harbor Island and the transfer of the necessary permits. Byrum envisions the NRA taking the lead on constructing the desalination plant. The proposal, however, was unsolicited, and no detailed discussions had been held between the NRA and the Port regarding this specific project.
NRA’s Vision for Water Sustainability
The Nueces River Authority, a state agency working with the Texas Water Development Board, is focused on water sustainability solutions across 21 counties in the Coastal Bend region. Byrum emphasized the NRA’s broader scope: “We don’t want to compete with the City of Corpus Christi; our role is to serve a much larger region and send treated water to the northern part of the basin.”
The NRA’s proposal outlines nine key points, including creating a public-private partnership to fund the desalination project. Private investors would fund 35% of the endeavor, while the NRA would issue bonds to cover the remainder. Additionally, the plan includes hiring experienced firms to design, construct, and operate the facility.
Port Chairman David Engel expressed optimism about the project, stating, “The good news is we’re moving forward; both the city and the Port are working together on Harbor Island,” emphasizing the collaborative nature of the project and the inclusion of all stakeholders in the decision-making process.
Challenges and City Involvement
Despite the NRA’s proactive approach, there are still obstacles to overcome. Councilman Gil Hernandez noted that no formalized agreement exists between the city and the Port regarding Harbor Island. “It was my understanding that the city had no interest in the Harbor Island project, and that’s why we pursued it,” Byrum explained.
Nevertheless, Hernandez sees potential in the NRA’s proposal. “I think we should participate if there’s going to be more than one public agency. It would be in our best interest to combine resources and reduce costs for everyone,” he said.
The City of Corpus Christi also plans to establish its desalination plant at the Inner Harbor. Should the NRA independently build and operate a plant, it would have to sell water outside the city’s coverage area, as only the City of Corpus Christi can sell water to residents.
Environmental Concerns and Opposition
The Port Aransas Conservancy has voiced opposition to the Harbor Island project. In a statement, the group criticized the NRA’s proposal. The Port of Corpus Christi, however, is pressing ahead. They plan to produce 100 million gallons of water daily at Harbor Island and have submitted an application to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality for the necessary water rights.
As the desalination project takes shape, the region’s water future remains in flux, with multiple stakeholders working to balance sustainability, costs, and environmental concerns.