Corpus Christi approves channel extension

Corpus Christi approves channel extension    Port Corpus Christi Authority commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a resolution supporting the La Quinta Channel Extension Project.
   'Signing the resolution shows the commission's commitment towards the realization of the most important diversification project for the port. Once the channel extension is funded and under construction, the La Quinta Trade Gateway project will be one step closer to reality,' said Mike Carrell, port commission chairman, in a statement.
   The La Quinta Channel extension has an estimated cost of $74.6 million. The Texas port's estimated share is to be $14.9 million and the federal share is to be $59.7 million. The extension is about 1.4 miles with a bottom width of 400 feet and depth of about 40 feet, and a ship turning basin.
   The Corpus Christi Ship Channel Improvement Project was authorized by the 2007 Water Resources Development Act. The port and the Army Department entered into a project partnership agreement on Oct. 13, 2009, for construction of the La Quinta Ship Channel extension and ecosystem restoration.
   On Dec. 8, 2009, Goldstone Engineering/CH2M HILL was awarded the preliminary design for a multipurpose dock/facility. The design will enable the port to handle a range of general cargo, such as containers, military, wind turbines and steel pipe. The design includes the preliminary design of the dock and the slip in the channel and the preliminary engineering for the projected full build-out of the three berths. Completion of preliminary engineering for full build out and design for the initial 800-feet to 1,000-feet dock will provide the information to define costs and determine design/construction schedules.