City Council approves $11M design contract for reclaimed water
At today’s regularly scheduled City Council meeting, members approved a Master Services Agreement with Ardurra Group, Inc. that allocates up to $11 million for the design of a significant expansion to the City’s reclaimed water infrastructure. The decision moves the City forward on a multi-year effort to improve the reliability, capacity, and efficiency of the non-potable reuse system while reducing demand on the potable water supply.
What the project will do
The agreement funds design work for an effluent reuse delivery system connecting the Oso Water Reclamation Plant to the Greenwood Wastewater Treatment Plant. Once complete, the new link should increase the volume of treated effluent available for non-potable uses and reduce discharge into local creeks, bays, and estuaries. Consequently, the project represents a significant investment in sustainable water management for the Coastal Bend.
Benefits for water conservation and reliability
City officials say the expansion will help offset the City’s reliance on potable water for irrigation, industrial use, and other non-drinking purposes. “This project demonstrates the City’s commitment to water conservation and sustainable infrastructure,” said Nick Winkelmann, Interim Chief Operating Officer of Corpus Christi Water. “By expanding our reclaimed water system, we are offsetting the demand on our potable water system.”
Moreover, the upgrade should enhance redundancy and operational flexibility, making the City better prepared for drought and future growth. Therefore, residents and businesses can expect more reliable access to non-potable recycled water, which supports long-term sustainability goals.
Historical context and current reuse practices
Corpus Christi has used wastewater effluent for non-potable reuse since the 1960s. Currently, Greenwood, Oso, and Laguna Madre Water Reclamation Plants supply a portion of treated effluent back into the community for landscape irrigation, industrial processes, and other permitted applications. However, a significant share still flows into natural waterways.
Connecting Oso to Greenwood aims to capture and redirect more of that resource into practical uses rather than discharge. As a result, the City expects to reduce stress on potable sources and limit environmental impacts associated with effluent release.
Funding, timeline, and next steps
The Master Services Agreement covers detailed engineering and design tasks. Next, project teams will develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates needed for construction bidding. Then, the City will pursue funding for construction and follow standard permitting and procurement processes. Officials say public meetings and stakeholder briefings will provide updates and opportunities for input as the project advances.
Community engagement and transparency
Notably, city leaders emphasize transparency as design moves forward. The City plans public meetings, technical briefings, and online updates so residents can review routing, environmental safeguards, and projected timelines. Consequently, community feedback will shape final design choices and ensure the project aligns with local priorities.
Why reclaimed water matters now
As weather patterns grow more variable and regional populations change, municipalities face rising pressure to manage water sustainably. By expanding reclaimed water capacity, Corpus Christi reduces demand on freshwater supplies and increases resilience during droughts. In addition, this approach protects coastal ecosystems by reducing effluent discharge and supports local economic stability through reliable water availability for industry and agriculture.
Partnerships and funding options
The City will explore federal and state grants, low-interest loans, and public-private partnerships to fund construction. Partnering with experienced engineering firms like Ardurra can also reduce long-term operational costs and speed project delivery.
How to learn more
City officials invite residents and interested parties to follow project updates. For more information, contact Ashley Marion, Strategic Business Manager, at (361) 826-3706 or ashleym6@cctexas.com.
The City Council’s approval of an $11 million design agreement with Ardurra Group marks a decisive step toward modernizing Corpus Christi’s reclaimed water system. By prioritizing reuse and building interconnections between treatment facilities, the City aims to secure a more resilient water future for residents, businesses, and the Coastal Bend environment.