Nueces County Adds Funds to the Bob Hall Pier rebuild as commissioners approved an extra $75,000 on May 21 to cover rising design and administrative costs. Despite unforeseen challenges, county leaders remain committed to keeping the project on time and within budget.
More Funding Approved to Sustain Construction
Nueces County Adds Funds to its ongoing agreement with Jacobs Engineering Group to prevent further delays in the Bob Hall Pier rebuild. On May 21, the Commissioners Court approved a second amendment to the design firm’s 2022 contract originally worth $372,185. The added funding will cover rising design and construction administration costs that have grown significantly since the project originally began.
The amendment also extends the contract through May 30, 2027, following nearly three hours of executive session discussion.
Why the Extra Funds Are Needed
According to agenda documents from the meeting, Jacobs Engineering had exhausted its budget for construction-phase services. Costs have spiked due to unanticipated changes and prolonged construction timelines.
A key change replaced steel piles with concrete, requiring extra evaluations and coordination in the redesign process. Jacobs Engineering cited added coordination with CLK Architects & Associates, who are designing the pier’s restaurant, concession area, and bait shop. Increased site visits and extended timelines further added to the budget strain.
Commissioners Take a Proactive Approach
Commissioner Brent Chesney, who has led efforts to secure funding for the $28.5 million pier rebuild, motioned to amend the agreement. He also proposed that Nueces County Judge Connie Scott sign the updated contract following a legal review, helping avoid any implementation delays.
“When the agreement started, many things have changed,” said Chesney. “We didn’t anticipate much extra work when we signed the contract. This amendment keeps the project on track and within budget.”
Though Jacobs Engineering initially requested $132,731, commissioners settled on the reduced $75,000 figure, believing it more accurately reflected necessary costs. The funds will come from the pier’s contingency fund, reducing the amount available for future unplanned expenses.
What’s Left in the Budget?
Chesney estimated that around $600,000 will remain in contingency funds after they pay the latest amendment, though officials gave no exact figure. Scott Harris of Lockwood, Andrews, and Newnam Inc. declined to comment on how much remains in the total contingency fund.
Background: From Hurricane Destruction to Groundbreaking
Bob Hall Pier, originally built over 70 years ago, suffered significant damage during Hurricane Hanna in 2020. After years of planning, officials and residents broke ground on a new pier on October 7, 2024.
The new facility will include a restaurant, bait shop, and updated amenities. On January 22, commissioners approved the restaurant building design and have since cleared technical plans so the project can move into the bidding stage. Callan Marine handles the construction and has 460 calendar days to complete the pier.
Additional Infrastructure Improvements Underway
At the same May 21 meeting, commissioners also voted to allocate an additional $1 million from Road District 4 for related improvements. Crews will rebuild roads damaged by hurricanes Hanna and Beryl and upgrade the parking lot to meet ADA and city safety standards.
However, before work can begin, this $1 million allocation still awaits final approval from the Texas General Land Office.
Looking Ahead
Despite budget changes and design adjustments, county officials remain confident the project will still be completed on schedule in 2026. Residents will enjoy a modern Bob Hall Pier that preserves its history while offering updated, safe, and accessible new facilities.