Reckless driving, screeching tires, and loud music late at night are all too familiar for those frequenting North Shoreline Boulevard in Corpus Christi. The area has become a hotspot for street racers and reckless drivers, leaving local hotels, businesses, and residents frustrated and concerned about safety.
CCPD’s Efforts to Combat Reckless Driving
In response to this growing problem, the Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) is taking significant measures to crack down on dangerous driving behaviors. Among their tactics is placing large trailers near the American Bank Center’s barge docks to deter speeders. According to CCPD reports, last weekend alone saw 96 traffic stops, 46 citations issued, 16 vehicles and motorcycles impounded, and 18 arrests.
Eight arrests were for reckless driving, while three were linked to racing. Additionally, officers seized three firearms, underscoring the severity of the situation.
A dramatic video posted on CCPD’s Facebook page captured the dangers of street racing. The footage showed a driver attempting donuts in the middle of the road, only to lose control and crash into a parked motorcycle. Fortunately, the motorcyclist could leap to safety moments before the collision. The reckless driver was subsequently arrested.
Local Hotels Feel the Impact
Hotels in the downtown Corpus Christi area, such as the Best Western and Omni Hotels, have voiced concerns over the rising safety risks. Hope Cannon, an employee at Best Western, emphasized the dangers of reckless driving.
“You can’t control the vehicle whenever you’re swinging around like that,” Cannon said. “You can hurt somebody—if not yourself, then someone else. What if somebody has their children?”
Hotel employees have reported receiving noise complaints from guests, with many worried about the safety of pedestrians and other drivers.
Business Impact and Frustration
Omni Hotel General Manager Krystof Kucewicz noted a tangible impact on business due to the street racing activity.
“Every weekend, we receive a lot of complaints from our guests staying here, not being able to sleep. Unfortunately, they leave earlier, which affects us and local businesses,” Kucewicz explained.
He also highlighted that while such activity peaks during the summer, favorable weather conditions have extended the racing season, further compounding the issue.
A Call for Safer Roads
Local businesses, including the Omni and Best Western hotels, hope that CCPD’s efforts and recent arrests will warn others of engaging in reckless driving. With increased enforcement and public awareness, there is optimism that the streets of Corpus Christi can become safer for residents, visitors, and businesses.