Corpus Christi, TX, USA – On Monday, April 30, 2018 the Port of Corpus Christi will host a hearing of the Texas House Select Committee on Ports, Infrastructure and Innovation.
Texas ports connect to global markets across a vast array of industries. The advent of "megaships," expansion of the Panama Canal, and Mexico’s project to reform its energy sector are transforming global transportation networks and markets. To ensure Texas is able to take full advantage of these innovations and other economic opportunities presented by its ports, the Committee shall review Texas ports’ infrastructure including inland borders and border ports of
entry. The Committee shall also analyze changes to the global trade landscape and the preparedness of Texas ports and border ports of entry to capitalize on those changes. Further, the Committee shall identify the near and long-term challenges facing Texas ports and border points of entry and propose solutions to address those needs.
The hearing will feature discussion among Committee members including Chairman Joe Deshotel, District 22; Vice Chair Dennis Paul, District 129; and Representatives Craig Goldman, District 97; Geanie Morrison, District 30; Evelina Ortega, District 77; Dade Phelan, District 21; and Justin Rodriguez, District 125.
That discussion will review the maritime port program for "Funding of Port Security, Projects, and Studies" in Chapter 55 of the Texas Transportation Code to identify changes or modernization needed to address current maritime-related port access and freight mobility needs.
It will also study the benefits of 85RSB28: Funding of Ship Channel Improvements; ensure the fund is
properly designed to benefit the Coast of Texas and its Ports.
The discussion will also study how to continue maintenance and dredging to ensure navigable waterways and channels, as well as identify alternative funding, if any, ensure navigable waterways and channels to remain competitive in the post-Panama Canal expansion era.
The hearing will begin at 10 AM at the Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz International Center, 402 Harbor Drive.
