TCEQ Approves Permit for Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus
City of Corpus Christi
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS (News Release) – The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Commissioners meeting in Austin, TX, TCEQ unanimously voted to approve the City of Corpus Christi's Texas Pollution on Environmental Quality (TPDES) permit for the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus project which will produce up to 36 million gallons a day of potable water to the Coastal Bend. This historic decision was announced following the public meeting, which was presided over by a three-member commission appointed by the governor of Texas.
TCEQ is the state’s primary environmental regulatory agency. It is responsible for protecting Texas’ natural resources and public health. All environmental permits for major infrastructure projects in Texas must receive TCEQ approval before proceeding.
This approval marks a significant milestone for water security in the Coastal Bend region, as it represents an important step needed to proceed with the construction and operation of the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus. TCEQ previously granted the Water Rights permit for the facility on October 5th, 2022.
“This is truly a historic moment for Corpus Christi and the entire region,” said City of Corpus Christi City Manager Peter Zanoni. “We are excited to move forward with the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus. Achieving this milestone demonstrates our commitment to securing a sustainable water future for our community. I’m pleased to report that the project remains on time and on schedule as we continue to make progress on this project.”
The City originally submitted its TPDES and Water Rights permit application to TCEQ in January 2020. The rigorous review process included technical evaluation, environmental assessment, and opportunities for public input to ensure the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus meets all regulatory requirements.
Next Steps
With the two major permits now approved by TCEQ, the City will proceed with the following steps:
1. Second quarter 2025: Kiewit, the selected design-build firm, will continue with the design of the demonstration center program and facility.
2. Fourth quarter 2025: At 60% design, Kiewit will submit a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) proposal to the City.
3. Fourth quarter 2025 to early 2026: After the City and Kiewit agree to the GMP, staff will go back to the City Council for approval to execute a construction contract with Kiewit.
4. First quarter 2026: Construction will start and continue through 2028.
5. Summer 2028: Construction will be completed, and the facility will go into operation
Once operational, the Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus will provide up to 36 million gallons of drinking water per day, increasing the region’s water security and enhancing the City’s traditional water sources that are vulnerable to drought conditions.
