CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — With Spring Break just around the corner, area beaches are primed to see large numbers of foot traffic -- local visitors and tourists alike -- come into town for some fun and relaxation.
Some may not notice but beaches on Padre Island are actually larger than they were a year ago.
That's all thanks to a beach nourishment program that essentially gave the beach a facelift.
Salty Dolphin employees said they're expecting large crowds because of the unique spot they’re in, and with the extra space provided by the beach re-nourishment project.
"We have three hotels (nearby), so we're in walking distance and we're right across the street from the beach," said manager Julie Foster.
The program, which dredges sand from Packery Channel to replace it on the shores from the Michael J. Ellis Beach to Whitecap Beach.
It's a project Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation Director Robert Dodd said he wanted to get done right before our beaches started filling up.
"In front of the seawall it gave an additional half a mile,” he said. “Increased beach access and you know, the accessibility. They're going to go out there and notice a difference."
Dodd said the project also helps to combat the never-ending beach erosion issue.
"It serves as a mitigation measure to safeguard against storm surges and things like that," he said.
Foster said that her teams are prepared on their end as well.
"Upstaffed,” she said. “We upped our inventory. We are actually adding a lot of new food items to the menu."
And for those looking for a fun, local spot -- well, Foster said you're in luck.
Dodd said that while he wants residents to have fun, safety is a top priority. He said to always pay attention to flag markers and to make sure to have your beach permit.