One of the most popular travel destinations on the Texas Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi is a reasonably priced destination for visitors as well as those looking to relocate. The city continuously strives to improve local programs and services for its residents and visitors, with a special significance placed on responsive service.Those moving to Corpus Christi will also love the warm waters and beaches and everything else this city has to offer.
History:
Corpus Christi began as a frontier trading post. Colonel Henry Lawrence Kinney founded the city in 1838. The small settlement was called Kinney's Trading Post, or Kinney's Ranch. It remained an obscure settlement until 1845, when U.S. troops set up camp there in preparation for war with Mexico. The Army remained in the city until 1846, when it marched southward to the Rio Grande to enforce it as the southern border of the U.S. A year later, the city took the name Corpus Christi because a "more definite postmark for letters was needed." The city officially incorporated in 1852. Residents elected a city council and a mayor, Benjamin F. Neal, who served until 1855. The city charter was later adopted in 1876. The city's first ordinance, adopted in 1879, made it against the law to let hogs and goats run loose. In 1983, the city adopted single-member districts, which allowed voters in a particular area to elect someone from their district to represent them on the city council. These single-member districts provide equal representation among communities or groups with different interests. Today, five city council members are elected through single-member districts, and three others and the mayor are elected at-large. Corpus Christi also has over 40 boards and commissions providing a direct link between citizens and the city council and staff.
Economy:
With a diverse population, workforce and culture, Corpus Christi maintains an assorted local economy. Various ethnicities and cultures reflect the global direction of Corpus Christi. The city is a center for large-scale fabrication, petrochemical manufacturing, marine research, maritime shipping and tourism. The tropical climate, excellent outdoor opportunities and premier health care facilities enhance the city's growth and economy, creating a perfect community in which to live or operate a business. It's not hard to see why Corpus Christi has been named an "All-American City." Corpus Christi offers many assets for business development that have attracted businesses from around the globe. In addition, the city is a major trade gateway for Mexico and Latin America. The Port of Corpus Christi is the sixth largest U.S. port in cargo, and is growing even larger with the addition of the La Quinta Container Terminal. The city continues experiencing growth in the aerospace sector. Over 3,500 are employed in this sector and growing. Corpus Christi also offers a highly skilled, low cost workforce specializing in petrochemicals, heavy fabrication, water transport, aerospace and marine research. Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi is considered one of the fastest growing campuses in the Texas A&M System. Major expansion plans underway that will accommodate 16,000 students.
Tourism:
The Corpus Christi Municipal Marina offers all of the amenities and services Corpus Christi Bay has to offer. Enjoy the waterfront, where you can take a rest and enjoy the beautiful collection of sailboats. Then, head over to Heritage Park and Cultural Center. There they host eleven different historic homes, including the 100-year-old Galván House, an award-winning center that hosts artistic cultural programs displaying the diverse culture of South Texas. Next, visit the largest remaining natural barrier island in the world. One of the city's most popular attractions, the Padre Island National Seashore covers 130,000 acres of untouched barrier island, which is home to sea turtles and spectacular bird watching. Live music and dancing thrive in the downtown club and bar scene of the city. And you can usually find a cozy late-night diner open to satisfy your nighttime urges.