Corpus Christi officials have a new proposed cost for Inner Harbor desalination.<\/p>\n
The new proposal would put the preliminary guaranteed maximum price for the plant\u2019s design and construction at about $978.7 million, according to a news release issued by the city Feb. 19.<\/p>\n
An estimate provided by a different developer<\/a> rang in at about $1.3 billion, it states.<\/p>\n City leaders are anticipated to discuss the new proposal in their Feb. 24 meeting, according to an agenda posted online.<\/p>\n The $978 million quoted is considered to be \u201ccost certain,\u201d city officials have said.<\/p>\n More: A major Corpus Christi water project may be delayed. Here’s why.<\/a><\/p>\n The $1.3 billion estimated under the initial contractor \u2013 Kiewit Infrastructure Co. \u2013 was the reason most-cited by councilmembers who voted 6-3 to end the contract for the plant\u2019s design in September.<\/a><\/p>\n A split council voted two months later<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Price aside, the project has been controversial.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n A comprehensive far field study taking into account the ship channel, Nueces Bay and Corpus Christi Bay \u2013 absent the first proposal \u2013 is planned.<\/p>\n It is not clear when study conclusions may be reached.<\/p>\n Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com.<\/p>\n Consider supporting local journalism with a\u00a0subscription to the Caller-Times<\/a>.<\/p>\n