City of Corpus Christi | Media Briefing Water Supply Initiative May 22, 2026

The City of Corpus Christi held a media briefing on May 22, 2026, focused on updates regarding the city's water supply initiatives amid ongoing drought conditions. Nick Wkelman, Chief Operating Officer of Corpus Christi Water, provided detailed updates on reservoir levels, water supply projections, and ongoing water infrastructure projects. Key procurement-related topics included the approval of a construction manager at risk contract with Seymar for a conveyance line between wastewater treatment plants, contracts with private entities like Valero and Flint Hills for wastewater reuse projects, and ongoing negotiations with Aquatech for a seawater desalination plant. The briefing also covered the status of groundwater projects, permit challenges, and efforts to diversify the water supply portfolio through surface water, groundwater, effluent reuse, and seawater desalination. The city council had recently approved updates to the drought contingency plan, with a second reading scheduled for June 2, 2026. Additionally, the Bureau of Reclamation approved the feasibility study for the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant, supporting potential federal grant opportunities. Public engagement sessions and upcoming council presentations were also announced to keep stakeholders informed and involved.