TIRZ #3 Advances Three New Downtown Development Projects
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — The Corpus Christi Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #3 (TIRZ #3) Board approved three new Downtown Development Agreements during its February 24, 2026 meeting, advancing strategic investment in safety, infrastructure, and commercial revitalization across Downtown Corpus Christi.
The approved projects represent targeted improvements through the Streetscape & Safety Improvement Program and the Commercial Finish-Out Program which are tools designed to strengthen the built environment, encourage private investment, and support long-term economic growth within the downtown district.
520 Starr Street – Anaqua Oil & Gas, Inc.
The Board approved a Downtown Development Agreement with Paul Knowles for exterior improvements to the historic property located at 520 Starr Street, with a TIRZ #3 incentive not to exceed $85,837 through the Streetscape & Safety Improvement Program.
Constructed in 1932, the building has served as office space for Anaqua Oil & Gas, Inc. since 1994. Planned improvements include roof and stucco repair, a gated front entrance, upgraded lighting and security cameras, parking lot resurfacing, and installation of a new aluminum perimeter fence.
These enhancements will preserve the architectural integrity of the building while strengthening safety and visual cohesion along the Starr Street corridor.
701 N. Mesquite Street – Avesta, LLC
The Board also approved a Downtown Development Agreement with Avesta, LLC for improvements to the parking lot at 701 N. Mesquite Street, with an incentive not to exceed $16,375 through the Streetscape & Safety Improvement Program.
The project will modernize and resurface the parking area to better serve the public and improve lighting and safety conditions. Strategic site upgrades such as these contribute to enhanced accessibility and support the continued stabilization of surrounding properties.
523 Taylor Street – Commercial Activation
A third Downtown Development Agreement was approved with Marcos J. Oliveira for improvements to the property located at 523 Taylor Street, with a total TIRZ #3 incentive not to exceed $133,500 through the Commercial Finish-Out (Landlord) and Streetscape & Safety Improvement Programs.
The project includes commercial finish-out and exterior improvements that will activate the property and strengthen the district’s small business ecosystem. The space will welcome the return of a beloved Corpus Christi staple, Sushi Bar, led by Chef David Le. Known for its strong local following and culinary reputation, Sushi Bar will re-emerge in Downtown as an elevated, modern dining concept, contributing to the area’s growing appeal as a cultural and chef-driven destination.
This reinvestment reflects continued momentum in attracting established operators back to the urban core and reinforces Downtown Corpus Christi’s position as a hub for culinary innovation and commercial growth.
TIRZ #3 is funded through incremental property tax contributions from the City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County, and Del Mar College. The program is designed to foster economic development by leveraging public investment to catalyze private redevelopment throughout key downtown districts.
“These projects represent steady, strategic progress,” said Arlene Medrano, Executive Director of the Downtown Management District. “Each improvement strengthens safety, preserves historic assets, and reinforces the long-term economic trajectory of Downtown Corpus Christi.”
For more information about TIRZ #3 programs and downtown development initiatives, visit https://downtowncorpuschristi.org/
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LINKS
downtowncorpuschristi.org/ | facebook.com/godowntowncc | instagram.com/downtowncorpuschristi_/ | linkedin.com/company/corpuschristidmd/
CONTACT
On behalf of Arlene Medrano, Executive Director of the Corpus Christi Downtown Management District Arlene Medrano, arlene@cctexasdmd.com, Office (361) 882-2363
ABOUT CCDMD
The Corpus Christi Downtown Management District (CCDMD), established in 1993, is a professional municipal district, representing property owners and stakeholders within the area bounded by Furman Avenue to I-37, and Lower Broadway to Corpus Christi marina L and T-heads, known as Marina Arts District. In 2023, the property owners voted to renew the district through 2033. The vision of the CCDMD is to create the most vibrant downtown on the Gulf Coast.