The Port of Corpus Christi has become the U.S. leader of oil exports in 2023, with over half of the 4 million barrels of crude exported daily from the U.S. passing through. This record-high export has led to a $13.4 billion economic impact on the Corpus Christi area, but the growth has put a strain on residential neighborhoods near the port. Hillcrest, a historically African-American enclave has seen a decline due to the expanding port. Residents like LaMarcus and Jestine Knox have been campaigning against a seawater desalination plant in the neighborhood which has the potential to displace even more families via buyouts.
The city’s economic diversification is a focus of regional economic development corporation’s efforts, aiming to support the diverse workforce and institutions in the region. Additionally, there have been campaigns to revitalize the city’s downtown to attract young workers and encourage those who grew up there to stay instead of being lured away by other cities.
The stories of the residents reveal the impact of the city’s expansion and the efforts of the residents to preserve their homes. At the same time, the growth presents economic opportunities and potential for continued growth in the future. As the Port of Corpus Christi and its customers plan for further growth as 2023 comes to an end, the economic impact of the port’s expansion continues to be seen in the Corpus Christi area, with both positive and challenging aspects.
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