Surge City

Cities will contain approximately 70% of the American population by 2040. At the same time many of the projected growth centers are situated on southern seaboards, subject to tropical storms and hurricanes.Aside from the reality of human danger, and physical and economic tragedy, many, if not most, of these cities are attractive and memorable places to live, some of world importance. Texas, both in its leading cities and the Lower Rio Grande Valley region has witnessed disproportionately high urban growth, combined in many cases with the relocation of the new industries, and thus a strengthening economy. This resurgence, much like the ones that have historically preceded it, is inexorably linked to the vulnerability associated with a coastal inhabitation.The proposition is made that future urban growth, purposefully designed, should continue to focus on these vulnerable urban areas, which could well be the next revolution in regional economic strategy.Hence, we are addressing a host of southern, and southeastern seaboard cities and firstly looking at the asset side of the balance sheet: mild climate; abundant fresh water, cheap land, often good land, rail, and air communication, solar, sea and wind power, existing physical, social and educational infrastructures. If we bring to these areas an increase of industry, population, and focused federal support, then, in turn, more tax dollars are generated, while deep, preventative design interventions can ensure a response and safety net at times of storm and sea surge.Corpus Christi – Surge CityThe work presents a design framework for a set of interrelated measures to reposition, infill, extend, and protect the City of Corpus Christi, Texas. The city is a tourist destination, has a small international airport, strong rail and road connections, good agricultural land in the vicinity, and significant areas for commercial, hotel, and residential expansion. It is also worth noting that it is a significant oil terminal requiring increased protection.A master plan demonstrates increased surge protection, and identifies safer areas for expansion combined with local transit and increased amenity.One of the barrier defenses is designed to double as a tourist attraction.Water Town is an area designed to accommodate flooding with an appropriate architectural framework.Hurricane resistant structures are designed as the basis to all new development.New transit nodes interconnect with community centers that are “safe houses” offering protection to the infirm, the mobility impaired, and those inhabiting locales with only partially adequate safety measures.The design strategy is implemented through a partnership, including a federal stimulus package for infrastructure and commercial and home hurricane protection, and an extension of tax increment financing where potential property tax provides robust, sustainable infrastructure.

Volume Editors
Anthony Abbate, Francis Lyn & Rosemary Kennedy

ISBN
978-0-935502-90-9