Padre Island city officials announced a local funding boost for a nearly $15 million seawall restoration and disaster mitigation project on North Padre Island. The city will invest an additional $11 million in Padre Island Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2 funding for the project. A Request for Proposals for the Michael J. Ellis Seawall rehabilitation project is expected as the project moves closer to construction.
The project, which is currently at 90% completed in the engineering and design phase, was originally planned to begin construction in fiscal year 2025 and conclude in 2027. The seawall was last renovated in the 1980s, following damage from Hurricane Allen. City leaders say the upgrades are needed to address safety concerns and better serve the community’s recreational use of the structure.
The project includes strengthening the seawall, repairing eroded concrete and sealing the structure. Planned improvements also include ADA access, railings, lighting, seating and shade structures.
The seawall is owned by adjoining property owners, who have historically been responsible for its upkeep. That private ownership has generally made the structure ineligible for FEMA assistance. Because the seawall plays a key role in flood mitigation, city leaders have obtained a maintenance easement that allows the city to maintain and improve the structure. Officials say the easement could help position the city for federal assistance in the event of a major storm.
City leaders also cite the seawall’s heavy use by residents and visitors, saying the area should reflect the broader community. The upgrades are designed to extend the seawall’s useful life by about 25 years.
Photo by Viktoria B. from Pexels
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