Texas $1.2 Billion Seawater Desalination Project Halted, Corpus Christi City Council Delays Vote
The Corpus Christi City Council voted last week to pause the $1.189 billion Inner Harbor seawater desalination treatment plant project until reconsideration on August 26. The project's cost has risen significantly from the initial $750 million, prompting council members to question cost-effectiveness and alternatives. Contractor Kiewit warned that delays would drive up costs and extend the timeline.
Quick Overview
- Corpus Christi, Texas, city council members voted last week to pause all work on the $1.189 billion seawater desalination plant until reconsideration on August 26. According to KRIS 6 News, this follows a lengthy debate over rising costs and alternative water supply options for the Inner Harbor desalination plant.
- The city selected Westlake-based Kiewit Infrastructure South Co. in October 2024 to design and build its first desalination plant to secure drought-resistant water supply for its growing population, with costs then estimated at $750 million.
- The city council was originally scheduled to vote on July 29 on a $50 million contract amendment allowing Kiewit to advance the project's design from 10% to 60%. However, several council members wanted more time to decide. Kiewit warned in a letter obtained by 3NEWS that delays could lead to increased costs and extended project timelines.
In-Depth Analysis
Four council members wrote to the Texas Water Development Board asking whether state funds reserved for the Inner Harbor site could be redirected to other water projects if the city ultimately abandons the project. According to KRIS 6 News, the letter also requested clarification on loan repayment terms and the availability of additional grants.
At the July 29 meeting, Councilman Eric Cantu made a motion to pause the project for 30 days to allow the state time to respond. Although the city has spent nearly $100 million on the project to date, the decision to delay comes amid growing calls to explore alternatives. If the project proceeds as planned, it is expected to be operational by 2028.
Desalination is increasingly favored amid growing water scarcity, but it remains a relatively uncommon treatment method. According to E&E News, treating seawater for drinking is costly and energy-intensive, and the process disrupts the environment both when drawing water and when discharging brine.
However, enhancing urban water supply is a pressing priority. According to the city's water utility, Corpus Christi is currently in Stage 3 drought conditions, meaning most outdoor water use is restricted.
Across Texas, the state is grappling with leaking pipelines and aging treatment plants strained by reduced water supplies, growing demand, and ongoing drought. Soon, state voters will decide on a measure proposing $1 billion annually for 20 years to address aging water infrastructure, water conservation, and development of new water sources.