North Padre Island Seawall Improvements

The Michael J. Ellis Seawall on North Padre Island is owned by the adjacent property owners, who are responsible for its upkeep, must keep it open to the public, face claims for damage or injury, and repair disaster damage if it occurs. The City has a maintenance easement over and behind the seawall.

The proposed upgrades to the seawall restore and enhance its structural integrity as well as its appearance. The City will install some amenities such as lighting and seating to enrich the experience for visitors to the Michael J. Ellis Seawall and Beach. These additions are intended to make the seawall a more enjoyable and attractive destination for residents and tourists alike. We are sensitive to ensuring that any proposed amenities do not conflict with the adjoining owners’ use and enjoyment of the seawall. Those proposed amenities will be fully vetted with the adjoining property owners and installed only with their concurrence.

Part of the motivation for the Michael J. Ellis Seawall project is that the seawall is incorrectly perceived by many patrons and tourists as a public asset even though it is privately maintained. Unfortunately, the age and current state of seawall maintenance does not align with the image that the City wishes to project for its public amenities. This project would help the City of Corpus Christi to enhance the positive image that City leadership wishes to create with our public facilities, spaces and amenities. It will also help to ensure that this important asset will continue performing its important functions into the foreseeable future.