A New Era of Entertainment Could Be Coming to Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi may soon gain a significant addition to its entertainment scene as Dallas-based Cinergy Entertainment explores launching a sprawling 90,000-square-foot complex on the city’s Southside. The company is actively evaluating the feasibility of bringing luxury cinemas, bowling, arcade games, and more to the area, although plans remain in the early stages.
According to city documents, the 10-acre site could include movies, bowling, arcade, plus food, bar, VR, and sports simulators.
Cinergy Remains in the Early Planning Stages
Despite the excitement, Cinergy Entertainment Corpus Christi remains in the early evaluation stage.
Cinergy President Rich Schwarte said the company has not finalized a development or construction timeline.
“Our focus remains on ensuring long-term feasibility and community alignment before moving forward,” Schwarte said.
He added that the company actively engages with government agencies across the country as it explores future expansion opportunities. Although Cinergy views Corpus Christi as a potential site, it has not guaranteed any plans at this time.
City Council to Consider Tax Incentives
On Tuesday, the Corpus Christi City Council plans to review a proposal to make the deal more appealing for Cinergy.
The preliminary agenda outlines a potential economic development agreement that could grant up to $4 million in property and sales tax rebates. The city would fund these rebates using the new revenue expected from the entertainment center’s construction and operation.
If approved, the incentive package will help fund approximately $9 million in new utility infrastructure needed for the development. The agreement will stay in effect for up to 15 years or until the city provides the full $4 million rebates.
A Catalyst for Southside Development?
City officials remain optimistic, saying the center could draw thousands annually and spark development on 50 nearby acres while serving diverse visitors.
Additionally, the city projects a substantial economic boost. Over 10 years, the facility could contribute approximately $3.9 million in local property taxes and $3.7 million in sales tax revenue.
Mixed Views on Incentive Use
While many city leaders view the project as a game-changer, not all are convinced. City Councilman Gil Hernandez warned that incentives could create unfair competition for businesses that didn’t receive similar support.
However, in this case, Hernandez acknowledged the absence of a direct competitor and the unique role the center could play as a commercial anchor.
“Because the property currently holds an agricultural exemption, the city is not collecting property taxes from it anyway,” Hernandez noted. “So it would be a net positive in the long run.”
A Promising Future, If Plans Move Forward
Cinergy already operates nine locations across Texas, including Amarillo, Odessa, Midland, and Granbury. Known for luxury cinemas and interactive fun, the company could transform entertainment in Corpus Christi.
hristi residents and visitors spend their leisure time.
Interestingly, developers considered the same parcel of land for a Costco project in 2014, but the plan never materialized. With Cinergy potentially moving in, Corpus Christi could finally see that site come to life in a new and exciting way.