Press Release: Texas Coastal Coalition Launches Education and Advocacy Platform for Port Aransas

PORT ARANSAS – Today, the Texas Coastal Coalition (TCC), an education and advocacy organization, announced the launch of a campaign to protect and promote the economic and environmental prosperity of Port Aransas and the Texas Coastal Bend.

The mission of the Texas Coastal Coalition is to educate Texans in the coastal region and beyond about the impacts of the proposed crude oil loading terminal on Harbor Island in Port Aransas. TCC will bring together the voices of those who treasure the Texas Gulf Coast to advocate for a solution that works for industry, the environment, and the community. Details about the economic, financial and environmental issues associated with the export terminal can be found at its website.

In December 2018, the Port of Corpus Christi entered into an agreement with Lone Star Ports, a Berry Group company, to develop a $1 billion crude oil loading terminal on Harbor Island. The proposed Lone Star Ports complex will accommodate the loading of the largest crude oil tankers in the world within the city limits of Port Aransas.

“This project threatens the sensitive ecological areas, beaches, fishing, watersports and quality of life that are so important to the Port Aransas community and economy,” said Port Aransas resident and TCC spokesperson, Tracey Carroll. “Too much of this discussion has occurred behind closed doors. Port Aransas businesses, homeowners and visitors need a resource for factual information, a platform for education on the issue, and a forum for their voices to be heard.”

“Just a few short weeks ago, a fatal dredging accident in the Port of Corpus Christi ship channel underscored the devastating risks the Harbor Island development represents. Such risks are unacceptable to the local ecology and our tourism economy, which is why the TCC supports the development of an offshore terminal as a commonsense alternative to a crude oil terminal in the city limits of Port Aransas.”

The TCC will be a resource for understanding the current development plans and its impact on the wellbeing of the Port Aransas community for generations to come and efforts have begun to recruit local business owners, homeowners, and Port Aransas visitors from across the country to support its efforts.

Those interested in supporting the community of Port Aransas and receiving updates on the path and progress of the Harbor Island and offshore terminal projects can visit www.texascoastalcoaliton.com.

###

The Texas Coastal Coalition is an education and advocacy organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the economic and environmental prosperity of the Coastal Bend. For more information, visit www.texascoastalcoalition.com.