Peter T. Leach | Jul 28, 2011 1:40PM EDT
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approved the Port of Corpus Christi’s request to increase the dredging depth of the La Quinta Channel extension from the originally approved 39 feet to 45 feet.
The Corpus Christi Port Authority said the deepening will allow the depth of the extension to match the current depth of both the La Quinta and Corpus Christi Ship Channels.
The Army Corps’ Galveston District approved $58 million to deepen the channel to 39 feet, and the port will provide the additional $15 million.
Bids for the dredging project are expected to be opened in mid-September.
The port said when it and its port operator, Global Terminal Advisors, determine that the additional dredging to a depth of 45 feet is needed, they will seek the funding for it.
In addition to the dredging of the La Quinta Channel extension, the Corps will also construct offshore breakwater and shoreline protection systems and a shallow water habitat to preserve the natural resources for the Ingleside area.
Extending the La Quinta Ship Channel will provide current customers and potential customers deep water access without the height limitations of the Harbor Bridge.
-- Contact Peter T. Leach at pleach@joc.com. Follow him on Twitter @petertleach.