AUSTIN, TX — Today, Governor Greg Abbott announced that the City of Corpus Christi has been awarded a $800,000 Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG) for the Clear Zone Easement to support the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (NASCC). Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa has been a longtime advocate for these grants. During the 2021 legislative session he supported the appropriation of $30 million for grants to military defense communities.

"These grants are critical to our military installations and allows them to build up their infrastructure, to increase the military value of their base, and help avoid a potential BRAC closure," said Senator Hinojosa. He added, "This grant will be used to acquire the final piece of Clear Zone property for the NOLF Cabaniss Field not currently owned or controlled by the Navy. NOLF Cabaniss Field is the only multi-engine training airfield for primary flight training in the entire U.S. Navy. By obtaining this easement, NASCC will be able to carry out this essential mission and ensure incompatible development does not hinder that mission in any way."

The City of Corpus Christi applied for the grant in November 2021 and included a letter of support from Senator Hinojosa. The project is an important part of the continuing partnership between the City and the Navy to protect Clear Zones and Accident Potential Zones from encroachments by residential, commercial, or other incompatible developments.

"I am pleased the Texas Military Preparedness Commission recognized the importance of providing these funds to Naval Air Station Corpus Christi," said Senator Hinojosa. He also added, "I appreciate the leadership of the City of Corpus Christi for working with the U.S. Navy and submitting the application requesting DEAAG funds. I am committed to continue working to protect the mission of our Texas military installations."

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