Corpus Christi officials have a new proposed cost for Inner Harbor desalination.
The new proposal would put the preliminary guaranteed maximum price for the plant’s design and construction at about $978.7 million, according to a news release issued by the city Feb. 19.
An estimate provided by a different developer rang in at about $1.3 billion, it states.
City leaders are anticipated to discuss the new proposal in their Feb. 24 meeting, according to an agenda posted online.
The $978 million quoted is considered to be “cost certain,” city officials have said.
More: A major Corpus Christi water project may be delayed. Here’s why.
The $1.3 billion estimated under the initial contractor – Kiewit Infrastructure Co. – was the reason most-cited by councilmembers who voted 6-3 to end the contract for the plant’s design in September.
A split council voted two months later to open the door for more talks on the proposed 30-million-gallon-per-day plant, signing off on allowing a different contractor to develop a new proposal and associated cost.
The consideration before the council Feb. 24 would be whether to give the nod for contract negotiations for design, a demonstration plant and 60% guaranteed maximum price, according to the news release.
Price aside, the project has been controversial.
The site, off Nueces Bay Boulevard and W. Broadway Street, is adjacent to a historically Black and Hispanic neighborhood. There has also been debate on whether the project poses ecological risk, and if so, how much.
A comprehensive far field study taking into account the ship channel, Nueces Bay and Corpus Christi Bay – absent the first proposal – is planned.
It is not clear when study conclusions may be reached.
Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Corpus Christi has new proposed price for Inner Harbor desalination plant