Corpus Christi pushes forward with decisive action to combat the region’s ongoing drought, approving a nearly $170 million groundwater purchase agreement that could deliver up to 24 million gallons of water per day. On October 21, city officials voted 7-1 to advance the Evangeline Groundwater Project, a plan that could transform the city’s water future. If finalized, the deal would secure 28,000 acre-feet of water annually — a major move toward easing drought-related shortages. Only Councilman Roland Barrera opposed the measure, while Councilman Mark Scott was absent. With this bold step, Corpus Christi pushes forward in its mission to ensure long-term water security for its residents.
What the Evangeline Project Means for the City
The project involves drawing water from a 23,000-acre property in San Patricio County, near Sinton, adjacent to U.S. Highway 181 and U.S. Highway 77. The city’s plan is ambitious — and conditional. The agreement will only close if both the city and the project developers, Evangeline/Laguna LP, meet several key requirements in the coming months.
Developers have six months to obtain essential permits, including those for drilling wells and transporting water to Corpus Christi. These permits would eventually transfer to the city upon completion.
However, some critics question whether the timeline is realistic, warning that rushing through such a large-scale project could pose logistical and environmental challenges.
City Conducting Rigorous Review and Due Diligence
To ensure transparency and feasibility, the city will undergo a three-month due diligence phase. During this period, teams will examine hydrogeologic data, environmental testing results, infrastructure layouts, and land surveys.
City records indicate that officials will review everything from pipeline routes and electrical systems to pump station locations and surface-use agreements. This review process also involves a $1 million nonrefundable earnest payment, underscoring the city’s commitment to move forward.
City engineers have already begun pre-engineering work — including identifying potential well sites, mapping water lines, and integrating the new source into the existing Mary Rhodes Pipeline. Specialists are also running hydrogeologic models to determine the safe long-term pumping limits for the wells.
Importantly, the $169.5 million price tag covers only the purchase of water rights. Engineering firms will disclose the additional costs for the wells, pipelines, and infrastructure in the coming weeks.
Addressing Concerns from Neighboring Communities
The city has also approved a 50-year contingency agreement with the town of Sinton, designed to protect its residents from potential water supply disruptions caused by the new project.
Under this deal, Corpus Christi would build a connection between the two cities’ water systems. If Sinton’s wells were ever compromised or its pumps failed, Corpus Christi would provide emergency water at no cost for up to 60 days.
If the project affects the quantity or quality of Sinton’s water, Corpus Christi would bear responsibility for corrective actions. These could include drilling deeper wells, relocating well sites, or supplying water directly through the new connection.
Sinton City Manager John Hobson has previously expressed concerns about the project’s impact, including potential subsidence—the gradual sinking of land due to excessive groundwater withdrawal. City officials say the Sinton City Council has not yet reviewed the deal. Still, they are preparing a similar agreement for the St. Paul Water Supply Corporation, which provides water to nearby communities.
A Strategic Step for Long-Term Water Security
City officials say the Evangeline project marks progress as Corpus Christi Pushes Forward securing long-term water. Relying on surface reservoirs makes the region drought-prone, but this groundwater source promises lasting stability.
However, not everyone shares the same optimism. Skeptics caution that environmental risks, cost overruns, and logistical hurdles could outweigh the anticipated benefits. Many believe the city’s pursuit of new water sources is vital, urgent, and worth the risks.
The coming months will reveal if the $170 million project becomes a triumph or warning. Regardless of the outcome, Corpus Christi pushes forward with determination to protect its water future.