CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The City of Corpus Christi is working to address the issue of flooding on North Beach.
Using Monday's rains as another example, flooding on North Beach seems like a never-ending problem.
Corpus Christi City Councilman Billy Lerma said the issue has been on his mind for decades.
"We've waited a long time, probably 30 years or more for North Beach," Lerma said.
On Tuesday, City Council will hear a presentation from a California-based architectural firm to fix the North Beach flooding. The firm looked at all the studies the city has done on North Beach flooding over the years. The city says it has spent $830,000 to study the problem.
First estimates for several different phases of flood control carries a current price tag of $43 million.
"They took all these studies, of all the years that we've done on the drainage problem on North Beach," Lerma said. "They've consolidated all the information that they have there to come up with the best solution that fits the city on North Beach but also for cost factor."
Even a summer shower like the one Monday can cause high water problems on North Beach. Heavier rain like North Beach saw in May can leave it flooded for days. The idea of using canals for drainage has fascinated people for years. City Manager Peter Zanoni said a new plan may include some canals that can be used by tourists and residents alike.
"We're recommending a linear canal. That's something that the locals can take advantage of," Zanoni said. "You don't need a million dollar yacht to enjoy a beautiful canal. The features that we'll show [Tuesday] will show areas where families can go to enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the water, and stay fit."
The solutions will be varied, including sand dunes behind the beaches, a seawall, tidal gates, elevated buildings and infrastructure, and even storm water pumps.
New Harbor Bridge problems could eventually delay North Beach plans
Lerma said another challenge is waiting for the new Harbor Bridge to be completed.
"We won't be able to go to Phase 3 until the old Harbor Bridge gets knocked down," Lerma said.
Lerma and Zanoni said they've already secured $10 million toward the project pending council approval in the next couple of weeks.
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