The historic Ortiz Center has reopened following a $20 million renovation, preserving its character while adding major upgrades. Public tours are coming soon.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — 3News was given an exclusive look inside the historic Solomon P. Ortiz Center as the Port of Corpus Christi reopened the nearly century-old building following a $20 million renovation. The facility is now open for reservations, allowing the public to book the space for meetings and events.
Originally built in 1926 as a cotton warehouse, the Ortiz Center has hosted Port business, charity galas, and wedding receptions for over two decades. Port officials say the extensive renovation allows the venue to continue serving as one of the region’s premier event spaces while preserving its historic character.
During the tour, 3News was shown several visible upgrades, including revamped meeting rooms, a new dais for Port Commission meetings, and an upgraded ballroom. Many of the building’s original architectural features were intentionally preserved.
“The steel trusses and beams, the wooden ceilings above us — these are all original features of the warehouse built in 1926,” said Danielle Converse, the Port of Corpus Christi’s foreign trade zone manager.
One of the most recognizable original elements remains the ballroom’s concrete wall, which has witnessed decades of Port operations, the construction of two Harbor Bridges, and countless community events.
While many of the improvements are immediately visible, Port officials said a significant portion of the $20 million renovation focused on upgrades behind the walls. Those include a new HVAC system and other infrastructural improvements as well as safety enhancements designed to protect the building during the Coastal Bend’s six month hurricane season.
“Things like all new windows and doors — these are all impact-resistant glass,” Converse said. “Before, when a tropical storm or hurricane was coming, our maintenance staff would literally have to put shutters over every piece of glass in the building.”
The upgrades are expected to improve safety, durability, and functionality while allowing the Ortiz Center to remain a long-term asset for the community.
Port officials said a public tour of the newly renovated Ortiz Center will be announced soon, giving residents an opportunity to see the upgrades firsthand.