CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A proposed brackish groundwater deal that once appeared affordable is now shaping up to be far more expensive and complex than first presented.

Last week, the Corpus Christi City Council approved a draft agreement with Evangeline Laguna Water LP to pump groundwater from San Patricio County and transport it through the Mary Rhodes Pipeline.

On Monday, District 5 Councilman Gil Hernandez estimated the project would cost under $200 million for 12 million gallons per day (mgd), with the option to double the amount to 24 mgd. Hernandez also said reverse osmosis treatment would not be needed.

But on Tuesday, the mayor and city staff presented a significantly higher figure. A city report now estimates the full 24 million gallons per day — the level under discussion, acc

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