FAQs
The HBP includes replacement of the existing Harbor Bridge and reconstruction of portions of US 181, I-37, and the Crosstown Expressway. The project will include the development, design, construction, and maintenance of a total of 6.44 miles of bridge and connecting roadway. The bridge will include six-lane sections of US 181, three lanes in each direction with a median, barrier, shoulders, and a bicycle and pedestrian shared-use path. Additionally, the project includes the reconstruction of approximately 1.6 miles of I-37, reconstruction of approximately one mile of the Crosstown Expressway, and demolition of the existing Harbor Bridge.
The total cost of the project is approximately $1.2 Billion.
The new Harbor Bridge will be made of concrete and include cable-stay bridge design. Once complete, it will be the longest, cable-stay, concrete-segmental bridge in the United States.
TxDOT has determined that US 181 and the Harbor Bridge must be improved to maintain a safe and efficient transportation corridor. The existing bridge has safety issues associated with the lack of shoulders, steep grade, a reverse curve, and an accident rate that is higher than the statewide average. The Harbor Bridge also has high maintenance costs and provides no acceptable access for those on foot or on bicycles. Furthermore, the bridge’s 138 feet of navigational clearance, which met World War II standards when it was built, make it difficult for the Port of Corpus Christi to compete with other Gulf Coast deepwater ports because of larger ship sizes today.
A new bridge would allow TxDOT to improve safety, thereby reducing accident rates; provide better opportunities for moving people and goods (including military equipment and Port assets) throughout the region; provide adequate capacity to meet future traffic demand; and provide greater economic development opportunities for the Port of Corpus Christi.
The project will affect some individuals and we realize a project of this magnitude may cause discomfort for some people. We also understand how important it is to communicate with those individuals that are directly affected by this project. We are committed to open communication with affected owners and we realize the impact this will have on some individuals. Our goal is to do everything we can to reduce the impact of the project and to assist if relocation is required.
HBP property and relocation experts will contact affected owners to review options so they will be able to make the most informed decision to best meet their specific needs.
A variety of communication tools including public meetings and presentations, website, social media, and media/traffic advisories will be used to keep the public informed and updated on project happenings.
