CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Since it received significant damage during Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Bob Hall Pier has never been the same. But change is underway to restore the pier and bring new life to the surrounding area.
"This is just really the first step of seeing some actual work to get done, it's kind of neat," Nueces County Commissioner Brent Chesney said.
Construction is finally underway at Bob Hall Pier and while it may not be an overnight project, the foundation is being built.
"They built a 960 linear foot trestle that they bring in sections, they've got several sections here," Chesney said. "They'll assemble it, they'll put it out in the water and that's what they'll use to build the pier adjacent to the trestle. So, this is where you have to start before you can start all of the work."
Due to the damages the pier took from both Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Hanna, the new blueprints include extra safety.
"It's going to be longer, stronger, wider, higher," he said. "It's going to have a diamond shape on the end of it which will help with the storm surge that comes along. It helps it take it better. We developed and designed it to take a 100-year storm and it's got a 50 year design on it for a lifespan."
While safety and structure longevity was top of mind in the design process, fun and fellowship was not forgotten.
"We're also going to build an adjacent restaurant space that'll butt right up to the pier," Chesney said. "It'll be 5,000 square feet of space that's going to then go out for bids, if you will, to let people say 'Hey, we're the best person and here's why.' The Parks Board will make that decision."
Many community members are excited about the changes underway.
"It'd be nice to have some more stuff to do around here and to experience besides sandcastles," beachgoer Reno Pearson said.
Others hope that overhead shaded areas will also be added to better enjoy the scenery.
"It's just nice to be out here," beachgoer Mary Caballero said.
Chesney told 3NEWS that per the contract the project should be completed by the end of 2025, weather permitting.