The Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority (CCRTA), in cooperation with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), proposes to make improvements to the Port Ayers Transfer Station located at 4311 Ayers Street in Corpus Christi, Texas (the Project).  As lead Federal agency, FTA has determined that the Project is a Federal undertaking subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and is the type of activity that has the potential to cause effects on historic properties. CCRTA and FTA seek public comment and input on the Project (described below).

Project Description

CCRTA proposes to construct a new bus terminal and drivers’ facility at the existing Port Ayers Transfer Station. The existing station lacks both visual clarity and sufficient buffering from cars on the roadway. The Project would provide riders with a station that is separated from vehicular traffic for pedestrian safety, a clear line of site across the platform for security when arriving on foot or by bus, and enhance the station’s atmosphere by creating a more open space. The existing station would continue to operate while the new station is built.

The Project includes the demolition of the vacant Kleberg Bank, located at 4211 Ayers Street. The bank sits north of the station in a two-story structure that includes six drive-through teller lanes. The bank property includes a small maintenance shed near the northwest corner of the Project area. The shed houses a boiler/chiller for the bank and provides access to a crawl space extending beneath the teller lanes. The bank was constructed in 1969 and was designed by local architect Walter Wisznia. Mr. Wisznia designed over 70 banks and office buildings throughout Texas and New Mexico. Based on the bank’s age and its distinctive characteristics, it is potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. No other listed historic properties or districts are near the Project area.

Public comments on the Project may be sent to: cperez@ccrta.org