Harbor Bridge Alternative Corridors Evaluated During Feasibility Study
In the Feasibility Study, four alternative corridors (including the existing one) were evaluated for a Harbor Bridge replacement. As shown on the map, one alternative (orange) follows the current route of the bridge. A second (blue) follows the path of the current southern approach to the bridge but then continues out into Corpus Christi Bay, avoiding the existing Northside neighborhood and Port facilities. A third alternative (green) is an extension of the Crosstown Expressway, but returns to an alignment (route) parallel to the existing Harbor Bridge across the Corpus Christi Ship Channel.

The fourth and preferred corridor alternative (red) identified during the Feasibility Study would provide the most direct connection between the existing IH37/SH286 (Crosstown Expressway) intersection and U.S. 181 north of the Ship Channel. Another advantage identified in the study is that it would enable a new bridge to be built without the sharp curves and steep approaches of the existing Harbor Bridge, which would enhance safety. This alternative was also identified as being the most compatible alternative with the City of Corpus Christi's future development plans.

The preferred corridor is approximately 3,000 feet west of the existing Harbor Bridge. Although this corridor is about 600 feet wide, the actual path of the bridge and its approaches would be less than half of that width.

The other alternatives were ranked lower than the preferred corridor for various reasons including greater adverse environmental impacts and incompatibility with future local development.