New Detention Center Upgrade on Leopard Street

City of Corpus Christi

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS (News Release) - Corpus Christi City Council approved awarding $4.85 million to South Texas Building Partners for the construction of a new detention center.

The project will add 2,500 square feet and upgrade an existing facility at 3312 Leopard Street to create a new Detention Center. The building will feature a new courtroom, nine holding cells, a sally port, parking facilities, IT and security systems, and perimeter fencing. The center is located in Council District 1.

The City is currently using the facility, but upgrades are needed to accommodate an expected increase in capacity and improve operations. The city previously leased space in the Wilson Building downtown for the detention center.

The City Detention Center operates 24 hours a day, processing all individuals arrested by Corpus Christi Police. This includes booking, fingerprinting, and housing until arrestees meet with a judge and are either released or transferred to the Nueces County Jail.

"The renovation will enhance the operations of the City Detention Center," said Judge Jackie Del Llano Chapa, Municipal Court Judge. "This will allow our staff to process individuals in a safe and timely manner."

Construction is expected to begin in January and be completed by July 2027.