Council Approves La Retama Central Library Exterior Renovations

July 22, 2025

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – At today’s regularly scheduled City Council meeting, Mayor Paulette Guajardo and the City Council awarded a $2,027,560 construction contract to Crawford Henrichson and Crawford LLC for exterior renovations to the La Retama Central Library. Funding is from Proposition D of Bond 2022, which included $2.5 million for La Retama Central Library exterior improvements.

The project will eliminate the need for shutters by replacing all windows with new windstorm-impact-rated windows. The new sliding storefront entry will also be windstorm-impact-rated, and a sliding interior door in the foyer will be installed. 

The scope of work includes repairing cracked and peeling exterior wall plaster and creating a mural on the colonnade wall. It also provides a new sidewalk connecting the bus stop to the library entrance, significantly increasing ADA compliance. 

Additional features will include three-tier landscaping and a digital sign in the front yard to display library events. An aluminum windstorm-rated canopy with hardscape pavers in the backyard will provide space for storytelling and nature enjoyment. A security fence and improvements to the parking lot will be added for safety.

The Corpus Christi Central Library (now La Retama Central Library) opened in 1986 at its current address. Its previous location was at 505 North Mesquite Street in what is now La Retama Park.

In Fiscal Year 2024, the library had 101,175 visitors. 

“La Retama Central Library is a cornerstone of learning, connection, and community in Corpus Christi,” said Mayor Paulette Guajardo. “These much-needed renovations will ensure the library remains a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for generations to come. We’re proud to invest in this vital resource through our voter-approved Bond 2022 program.”

“These enhancements will improve the library's functionality and aesthetic appeal, and overall, it will be safer and more accessible for all visitors,” said Laura Garcia, Director of Libraries. “La Retama Central Library is not only the administrative hub for the library system, but it also serves as a community space hosting many popular events.”

Construction is anticipated to begin in August, with an expected completion in April 2026.

For more information, media representatives can contact Bryan Quitania, Senior Public Information Officer, at 361-826-3884 or by email at bryanq@cctexas.com.