Corpus Christi Bay Ecology and Recreational Access

This project will develop a conceptual master plan that will facilitate development of nature-integrated access along the Corpus Christi Bay, like the Oso Pier, to maintain and improve shore protection emphasizing living shorelines where possible and adding natural components like oyster reefs and oyster integrated breakwaters that improve the ecological health of Corpus Christi Bay while contributing to shoreline stabilization.

The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi will undertake an assessment of the shoreline and adjacent upland and subtidal environments from McGee Beach on the west to the Naval Air Station on the east, approximately eight miles, as needed to support development of PMAR projects along that shoreline. The goal of the project is to conceptualize a new protective urban shoreline for Corpus Christi that improves bay ecology and human access and use of bay margins, including suitability for oyster reef restoration and pier construction.

This project will consider the shoreline and adjacent upland and subtidal environments from McGee Beach on the west to the Naval Air Station on the east, approximately 8 miles. Phase 1 will cover the entire shoreline and develop a new vision for the bay shoreline based on characteristics of the coupled human-natural system it is today. Subsequent phases would study in more detail and develop preliminary and intermediate improvement plans for specific sites based on shoreline processes, ecological status, and human uses.