CALALLEN, Corpus Christi — New developments are popping up left and right in northwest Corpus Christ, especially in the Calallen neighborhood.
As residents drive through the area, they can see coming soon and for sale signs on every side of northwest boulevard and neighboring streets.
The shell of new places are coming together as workers are continuing construction for businesses to open later this year.
Some of the new businesses coming to the area include chains like:
- IHOP
- Wendy's (multiple locations)
- James Avery
- Dollar General
- Pilot & Valero gas stations
- Two shopping centers
- Carwashes
Local spots that will be opening up are:
- People's Restaurant
- Chops & Eggs
- Mike Cotten's Barbecue
- Railroad Seafood
Many Calallen residents have gone on social media and voiced their opinions on the new places they are seeing and have mixed emotions.
On Facebook, while some are excited about the newfound growth, others are worried that this will cause more traffic and problems for the community.
For some, the main question they are asking is, "Why this area? Why is it happening now?"
Local business owners like Ruben Barrera, President of the Northwest Business Association, said that he had foreseen the growth of Calallen coming a while ago.
"For the last few years, we could feel the energy coming in this direction when it comes to new businesses, people moving to this area. I think families want a great place to live and I think this is an area where we're seeing a lot of traction and a lot of investment. If I just threw a number out, I'm probably seeing over $50 million dollars invested here in new businesses."
Barrera said that the growth will give the city the tax dollars that it can use to invest in improving the community. He encourages the community to look at things from a different perspective.
"I don't know what lens people want to look through, but I'll tell you what there's a lot of opportunity for people to grow their families, businesses and you just can't beat that."
As things materialize, we'll keep you guys updated as new retail stores, restaurants, gas stations and more open their doors to the public.
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