New water data shatters any hope of delaying the November curtailment deadline.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Corpus Christi’s water future is again on shaky ground, with city leaders acknowledging that a looming curtailment deadline may be unavoidable.
City officials confirmed this week that the city’s water curtailment date remains set for November, and new water usage data for 2025 has delivered unwelcome news.
Despite hopes that updated numbers might buy the city more time, water consumption in 2025 showed no meaningful improvement over last year effectively killing optimism that the deadline could be pushed back.
At the same time, the Evangeline water project, a cornerstone of the city’s long-term water strategy, remains mired in uncertainty. The seller is still working to secure agreements from multiple property owners, leaving the project’s timeline in question.
Councilwoman Carolyn Vaughn says city leaders anticipated obstacles but warned the financial stakes are too high to ignore.
“We knew we were going to have some hiccups, and that’s what’s going on,” Vaughn said. “But if we can’t get it done by November, then why are we paying $169 million for water?”
If the Evangeline deal collapses, the city may be forced to pivot yet again.
One alternative being discussed would involve drilling additional water wells along the Nueces River. A property owner there has offered to sell water rights that would allow the city to drill new wells and send that water directly into the river.
Vaughn opposes that option.
Councilman Roland Barrera, however, says it’s a discussion the city can’t afford to avoid.
“I’ve been accused of being a fearmonger,” Barrera said. “I have been quite concerned and frankly scared of where we’re going to end up. I personally think curtailment is imminent.”
City Manager Peter Zanoni says the fate of the Evangeline project now hinges on permits, permits that remain unresolved but could see movement soon.
“This Friday is an important date,” Zanoni said. “In San Patricio County, the groundwater conservation district will have a board meeting, and there will be an update on the Evangeline permit applications submitted by the sellers.”
With November fast approaching, city leaders face mounting pressure to deliver answers and a backup plan.
For now, Corpus Christi residents are left watching the calendar and wondering whether water restrictions are no longer a question of if, but when.