Today marks a monumental step forward for the Coastal Bend as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has officially approved the City of Corpus Christi’s Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) permit for the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus. This approval paves the way for Texas’ first municipal seawater desalination facility, ensuring a sustainable and secure water future for our region.

Water security has long been a key priority for the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, as it directly impacts our local economy, business growth, and quality of life. Our organization was proud to be one of the early advocates in support of this project, writing a letter that helped lead the way for other organizations and associations to join us in backing this critical initiative. The overwhelming support from the business community, local leaders, and residents underscores the importance of this investment in our future.

With the ability to produce up to 36 million gallons of potable water per day, the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus will serve as a cornerstone of economic resilience. This project will not only provide long-term water reliability for businesses and residents but also create jobs, attract new industries, and enhance the region’s infrastructure.

The journey to this approval has been years in the making, with the City of Corpus Christi first submitting its permit application to TCEQ in January 2020. Since then, the project has undergone rigorous environmental and technical evaluations, demonstrating a commitment to responsible and sustainable development. We commend City Manager Peter Zanoni and city officials for their steadfast leadership in navigating this process and securing this major milestone.

Looking ahead, the next steps for the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus include continued design and planning by Kiewit, the selected design-build firm, with construction expected to begin in early 2026. By the summer of 2028, the facility will be fully operational, delivering a new and innovative water source to meet the growing needs of our region.

As we celebrate this achievement, the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce remains committed to supporting the strategic investments that drive prosperity for our community. This project exemplifies the power of collaboration and forward-thinking leadership, ensuring that Corpus Christi remains a thriving hub for business and innovation for generations to come.