Reimagine Water Street Conceptual Vision Introduced to the TIRZ #3 Board

Corpus Christi, Texas – On Tuesday, the Corpus Christi Downtown Management District (DMD) introduced a conceptual vision, Reimagine Water Street, to the Downtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #3 (TIRZ #3) board. The project would enhance a vital foundation that connects I-37, the waterfront, and the greater downtown area.

The development of Reimagine Water Street was in response to the unfriendly pedestrian environment. The DMD partnered with TIRZ #3 and Design Workshop, an award-winning landscaping architecture firm, to create the concept presented at the TIRZ #3 board meeting. Design Workshop is responsible for iconic streetscape designs, such as Rock Rose Avenue in Austin and Bagby Street in Houston.

Benefits of the project would include increasing tree shade cover from 3% to 67%, decreasing crosswalk distance by 26%, creating rain gardens for stormwater retention, which will reduce flooding, and attracting investment along the empty street.

“This project has the opportunity for catalytic change in our community,” said Alyssa Barrera Mason. “Being able to enhance the visitor experience, provide solutions for flooding, and connect the Marina Arts District to the waterfront can and will completely reimagine a vital asset for Downtown.”

As this project is still in the conceptual phase, the DMD will continue to work with the City of Corpus Christi to identify potential funding sources, including Bond 2022.