A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 11 a.m. today, welcoming the public back to the iconic Coastal Bend pier.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Commissioner Brent Chesney says 90 days of free access will welcome the community back after a six-year rebuild.
After years of hurricane damage and rebuilding efforts, Bob Hall Pier is officially reopening to the public on Tuesday, with a ribbon-cutting set for 11 a.m., signaling what leaders call a new chapter for the Coastal Bend landmark.
“Today’s the start of a new era for Bob Hall Pier,” Nueces County Commissioner Brent Chesney said.
The pier, which has stood for more than seven decades, endured repeated storm damage before Hurricane Harvey destroyed it in 2017. It was later hit again during Hurricane Hanna in 2020, delaying reconstruction plans.
Chesney emphasized the long road to reopening.
“It is like Christmas morning,” Chesney said. “It’s been a long pilgrimage, but we are excited about this. It’s going to be a great day no matter what the weather is. The pier will be open.”
Chesney said Hurricane Hanna changed the trajectory of the project and his own life, noting he has spent the better part of six years working alongside the Coastal Parks Board and county leaders to bring the pier back.
“We never gave up,” he said. “This has been a dream come true to be able to finish this.”
While the pier itself is now open, additional construction will continue, including future restaurant and concession spaces.
Chesney also highlighted the economic impact, calling the pier “a great economic driver” for the community — especially as it reopens ahead of Barefoot Mardi Gras and spring break.
To thank the public for its patience, county leaders announced the first 90 days would be free.
“We wanted to do something for the public who’ve had to wait,” Chesney said. “We want people to come enjoy it… and start making memories again.”