The ceremony will take place on June 28 at 10 a.m.
After weeks of anticipation, Corpus Christi public officials have announced a new date for the long-awaited grand opening of the new Harbor Bridge. The ceremony is set for 10 a.m. on June 28, over a month after its original date.
State Representatives Todd Hunter and Denise Villalobos confirmed that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) informed them of the updated date. While additional details are still pending, Hunter noted that organizers plan to hold the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the top of the bridge.
Original Opening Delayed by Construction Work
TxDOT originally scheduled the event for May 10 but postponed it due to unfinished work on minor construction elements, including electrical systems, drainage, and signage. These finishing touches were essential to ensure the bridge’s functionality and public safety.
Although the bridge’s official opening date remains unconfirmed, attendees may temporarily walk or drive across during the ceremony. This symbolic access will offer a sneak peek of what many hope will become a new landmark for the city.
TxDOT Yet to Release Full Details
TxDOT hasn’t released the full schedule yet, but Hunter has asked for complete event details. Spokesperson Rickey Dailey did not immediately respond to inquiries made on June 16.
Hunter emphasized the urgency of opening the bridge, especially with the Atlantic hurricane season beginning on June 1. He said he wants to open the bridge because it serves as an evacuation route. “It also allows us to remove the old bridge and resume cargo ship movement. Some ships can’t access the port due to clearance limitations.”
A Decade in the Making
The new Harbor Bridge has been in development since 2016 and will replace the existing structure, which dates back to the 1950s. The taller, modern-designed bridge will meet today’s transportation needs, allowing larger cargo vessels to access the Port of Corpus Christi.
Despite its promise, the project has faced multiple delays, pushing back its completion timeline. Once completed, the new bridge will become South Texas’ tallest structure, highlighting a major milestone in Corpus Christi’s infrastructure growth.
What Comes Next for the Bridge
The June 28 New Harbor Bridge Grand Opening marks a major step forward, though the official opening to traffic remains unclear.