Corpus Christi, Texas, approves Mary Rhodes water pipeline upgrades amid Stage 3 drought
(UI) — The Corpus Christi City Council has approved additional funding for critical infrastructure upgrades to the Mary Rhodes Pipeline, a key water supply system now running at its maximum capacity amid worsening drought conditions.
The approval, granted during the council’s March 25 meeting, adds further redundancy and pumping power to the pipeline, which is currently delivering between 72 and 79 million gallons per day (MGD) of raw water from Lake Texana to Corpus Christi.
“This upgrade to MRP couldn’t come at a more critical time,” said Drew Molly, Chief Operating Officer for Corpus Christi Water. “With much of the region experiencing severe drought conditions, ensuring a reliable water supply system is essential for our community’s wellbeing and future growth.”
The city entered Stage 3 drought status this month, triggering new urgency for infrastructure improvements.
The initial Mary Rhodes Pipeline Phase 1 Condition Assessment Project of the 101-mile, 64-inch pipeline, performed by HDR Engineering, was named the Asset Management Project of the Year, presented by the Underground Infrastructure Awards program.
The Mary Rhodes Pipeline (MRP) has undergone several phases of upgrades. In October 2024, the City awarded H&S Constructors, Inc. a contract to improve the Phase I pump system, including:
- One booster pump and two variable frequency drives (VFDs) at the Bloomington Pump Station
- One VFD installation at the Woodsboro Pump Station
- Electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation system upgrades
The new council-approved change order will add:
- One additional redundancy booster pump
- Extra VFD capabilities
- Further electrical and mechanical improvements at the Bloomington Pump Station
The improvements are designed to keep the pipeline operating at Schedule 4 capacity — the highest operating level — ensuring stable water delivery during extreme weather.
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