At this week’s City Council meeting, members took an important step toward strengthening Corpus Christi’s long-term water security by approving a new path forward for the Inner Harbor Desalination Project, an essential component of our region’s drought-proof water strategy. We want to extend our sincere appreciation to the council members who supported this responsible and forward-looking approach.

A New Beginning for Inner Harbor Desal
After the Council’s October 3rd directive to end the previous contract with Kiewit, the City Manager presented a revised course of action for the Inner Harbor plant. The result was approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Corpus Christi Desal Partners (CCDP)—a joint venture between Acciona AWA Corporation USA and MasTec Industrial Corporation which includes local entities Ardurra and Reytec. This partnership brings extensive desalination experience and respected local collaborators to the table.

CCDP will build on the data and deliverables the city has already paid for, using the next six months to prepare fresh design and pricing options with greater cost certainty.

Clear Milestones, Transparent Process
The framework approved by Council outlines a deliberate, step-by-step process that includes three future votes:

1. Early 2026: Council receives multiple design and pricing options and chooses whether to pursue one.
2. Spring 2026: If selected, a final design-build contract is presented for approval.
3. This week’s MOU vote: The first step toward rebuilding a viable path forward.
   

To address previous concerns and improve the project’s foundation, several key changes were included:

• Flexible Options: CCDP may propose designs with lower production capacities or variable operations during certain environmental conditions to reduce cost.
• 30+ Year Private Operation: The City will issue a separate RFP for a private operator, using a “take-or-pay” water purchase agreement to ensure predictable costs.
• Far-Field Environmental Modeling: An independent, peer-reviewed hydrodynamic study of the bay, Nueces Bay, and the Inner Harbor will begin immediately—an amendment offered by Councilman Cantu and adopted by the Council.
  

Thank You to the Council
We extend our gratitude to the council members who voted to advance this new proposal and ensure ongoing due diligence. This courageous vote keeps Corpus Christi on track toward securing a reliable, drought-resilient water supply. By choosing a structured, transparent, and cost-conscious path, these council members demonstrated leadership during one of the most consequential water discussions our region has faced.

Looking Ahead
This MOU does not commit the city to building the plant. It does ensure that Corpus Christi has the data, cost clarity, and environmental modeling necessary to make an informed decision in 2026. The Chamber will continue to advocate for a secure water future and support a process that is transparent, science-driven, and responsive to community concerns.

We applaud the Council for taking this important step and look forward to continued collaboration to ensure Corpus Christi’s long-term water reliability.