At city council today, the council members will be briefed on the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus, specifically focusing on the Kiewit cost model for construction. 

After months of intensive analysis, the Progressive Design Build (PDB) team, led by Kiewit, has completed a 10percent design cost model estimating a construction cost of $997 million. While early cost projections evolve during design development, this is a critical and expected phase of a thoughtful, transparent infrastructure process. Most importantly, this estimate reflects a deliberate effort to prioritize affordability, sustainability, and long-term reliability.

Thanks to operational optimizations—particularly in energy usage—annual operating costs have already been reduced from an initial $44 million to $32 million. This reduction directly benefits ratepayers and shows a commitment to continuous improvement.

The projected residential rate impact in 2029 is $11.38 per month. That number could drop to $9.92 with successful federal support through the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation grant—lower than what was presented to Council just one year ago.

This approach to seawater desal is not only technically sound but also financially responsible. The PDB model ensures collaborative cost control with checkpoints at 1 percent, 30 percent, and 60percent design milestones. A Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) will be set before construction begins, giving the Council full control and transparency before final commitment.

This project isn’t just about water—it’s about securing the future of our community. By investing in desalination now, we’re ensuring that future generations have access to reliable, drought-proof water while maintaining economic competitiveness. 

We need water now.  The Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus is the result of years of planning, coordination, and public accountability. This project is the only fully permitted desal project with science and transparency behind it. I encourage you to support this initiative as a smart, strategic step forward for Corpus Christi.