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Press Release: Corpus Christi Downtown Management District Executive Director Alyssa Barrera Mason Announces Departure After Progressive Tenure

Corpus Christi Downtown Management District Executive Director Alyssa Barrera Mason Announces Departure After Progressive Tenure 

Corpus Christi, Texas – The Corpus Christi Downtown Management District (CCDMD) announced today the departure of Alyssa Barrera Mason after a seven-year tenure leading as the Executive Director. Mason’s leadership marks an era of catalytic progress for Downtown Corpus Christi. Once marred by vacant buildings and blight, Downtown is now known for vibrant, lit up street fronts, burgeoning local entrepreneurship, and flowers on every corner. Her last day with the organization is April 17th. 

A fourth generation native of Corpus Christi, MPA graduate of Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, and Certified Economic Developer, Mason brought a purposeful sense of community combined with technical knowledge and continuing education to the role of Executive Director. Key milestones during her tenure include: 

  • Established incentive programs that ushered in unprecedented economic development with 79 development projects totaling nearly $220 million in total private investments completed or underway, leveraging $21.3 million incentive amounts reimbursed or committed to downtown developments;
  • The 10-year renewal of CCDMD and the first ever district expansion into South Downtown;
  • The implementation of key catalytic infrastructure projects such as the completion of the Chaparral Street two-way Conversion project in 2018 and setting the vision for Water Street Reimagined;
  • Implementation of the Downtown Area Development Plan through annual DMD service plans;
  • Expanded beautification, public art, and landscaping projects that added vibrancy and cultural significance;
  • The expansion of First Friday ArtWalk to over 21,000 average attendance.

 But Mason’s single proudest accomplishment is growing a collaborative organization that will continue the downtown revitalization effort. 

“Revitalizing Downtown Corpus Christi is a cause that inspired me to stay in this city and make a difference in our community for almost fifteen years through various roles in local government,” said Mason. “In building lasting partnerships and a team that has the capacity to fulfill our vision, my era of leadership is not a flash in the pan, but a pivotal period that put Downtown Corpus Christi on a new trajectory. I am proud that the efforts will continue and I’m grateful for the support of the community, partners, the City, and the TIRZ #3 Board.” 

The CCDMD Board of Directors will name an Interim Executive Director at the next Board Meeting, ensuring a smooth transition in leadership and organizational continuity. CCDMD remains committed to its vision of creating the most vibrant downtown on the Gulf Coast. 

“Alyssa’s tenure as Executive Director has been both invaluable and instrumental to the advancement of Downtown Corpus Christi,” said CCDMD Board Chair, Glenn R. Peterson. “She has established the foundation for a strong, efficient organization that will continue driving Downtown toward a brighter, more vibrant future.” 

Mason will be relocating to Houston with her family and will begin a role with Downtown Houston+ later this Spring. 

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