New Safety Measure at Packery Channel Jetties
City of Corpus Christi
CORPUS CHRISTI – Last month, the City of Corpus Christi completed its installation of gates at the entrance of the walkways along the Packery Channel jetties on North Padre Island. These gates were installed as a measure to address safety concerns during hazardous coastal conditions. Last year alone, two lives were lost during two separate incidents as a result of patrons accessing the walkways during dangerous tidal activity.
Lifeguards from the City’s Parks and Recreation Department maintain a sustained presence near the jetties during lifeguard operating hours. These employees continuously monitor the weather and its impact on the walkways. If tides breach the height of the handrails along the walkways, gate closures are considered. Waves of this height or more can create a force strong enough to sweep patrons from the walkways into the Gulf of Mexico. This swift and violent action can lead to serious injury or death.
Corpus Christi, along with the State Government Land Office, has reviewed and confirmed the City’s ability to act along these walkways, as the jetties are the property of the City of Corpus Christi and not the State of Texas.
Understanding this capability, the City will continue to meet its obligation to protect the safety and welfare of beach patrons.
The public is urged to take precautions and follow local advisories for updates on beach conditions by visiting Corpus Christi Beaches | City of Corpus Christi (cctexas.com).