In a 9-to-zero vote, the Corpus Christi City Council approving the first steps to rezone the Corpus Christi Bayfront Hotel, with one request from the out of state investors: a historic designation. The Landmark Commission approved the decision before it went to council.
“When someone drives down the street, it’s a time capsule,” Corpus Christi Historic Preservation Officer Robert Kurtz said.
Kurtz explained the property has significance and it’s more than just a brick-and-mortar.
“This place is significant because the economic push was to compete with Austin and San Antonio with their conferences and drive people to Corpus Christi,” Kurtz said.
Opening as a La Quinta in March 1973 at 601 N. Water Street, the property used to host some of the most ‘talked about’ events in the city. That’s one of the requirements Kurtz said is needed for a historic designation to happen.
“It has to be 50 years old or if a significant event took place there and if somebody famous owned the house or property,” Kurtz said.