The brand new Harbor Bridge in Corpus Christi is not simply the town’s greatest bridge — it is the area’s greatest financial guess in many years. Standing greater than 200 ft tall, the construction is poised to reshape all the pieces from commerce to tourism as soon as it opens.
“Once you open this bridge, it sends a message that South Texas and the Coastal Bend are open for enterprise — and there is not any higher place to be,” mentioned State Consultant Todd Hunter.
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The bridge represents a gateway to progress, alternative, and a brand new period for South Texas. Its spectacular top permits it to welcome huge ships carrying extra cargo than ever earlier than, positioning the Port of Corpus Christi for important growth.
“As quickly as that bridge opens, I inform everyone — it is a postcard. We’ll be on each signal, each discover. That bridge goes to be spectacular,” Hunter mentioned.
One of many greatest beneficiaries would be the Port of Corpus Christi, with the bridge’s design enabling sooner delivery, elevated commerce, and a stronger place within the world economic system.
“Even when operations enhance by simply 5 p.c — which is a conservative estimate — we might see a billion-dollar enhance from port exercise alone,” mentioned Dr. Deniz Gevrek, a professor of economics with Texas A&M- Corpus Christi.
The financial momentum extends past the waterline. Native leaders anticipate the bridge will spark new growth and convey jobs to areas like North Seaside and downtown Corpus Christi.
“Once you put money into your self, individuals will put money into you. I inform my college students that on a regular basis,” Gevrek mentioned.
Past the quick financial affect, the bridge represents an funding in the way forward for the area.
“In 100 years, I need this metropolis to flourish. And our kids and grandchildren will have a look at that bridge and say, ‘Wow… our ancestors did an incredible job,'” Hunter mentioned.
If financial predictions maintain true, that legacy might begin paying off a lot earlier than 100 years from now.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been transformed to this platform with the help of AI. Our editorial workforce verifies all reporting on all platforms for equity and accuracy.
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