Spring Break two weeks long this year

Staggered school vacation schedules means a two-week-long Spring Break this year, according to the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau. Expected to begin with traffic build-up in the evening on Friday, March 13, and end with the last of the revelers leaving in the afternoon on Sunday, March 29, this could be the biggest Spring Break ever, CVB officials said. 
“That gives people in our target markets in San Antonio, Austin, Houston and the Rio Grande Valley more time to enjoy everything that makes Corpus Christi so special, from the beaches to the attractions,” CVB spokesperson Ashley Higson said. “Our partners are working double-time to make sure they are ready, open and offering spring specials. Our lodging partners are booking already.”
Last year, Spring Breakers filled up 81 percent of the city’s hotels. That was a significant increase over 2013 numbers despite a slow start to the week because of inclement weather. 
Economic numbers showed area attractions also registered higher visitor numbers in 2014 than 2013 with the most significant increase at inside attractions during the first part of the week when it was raining. Outdoor festivals were successful as well, Higson said, with most reporting increases from the previous year. 
“We are really looking forward to 2015,” she said. “Our beaches are looking beautiful, and parks and recreation people are all getting ready. There are so many things to enjoy here.”
Also prepared for the extended onslaught of Spring Breakers is the Corpus Christi Police Department. The biggest focus, Bravo District Capt. Kelly Isaacks said, will be the transition weekend of March 20-22. Bravo District operates out of Flour Bluff and includes Corpus Christi from Staples out to the island.
“We are drafting a lot of our non-essential personnel, personnel not in uniform, for that weekend, when our heaviest crowd will still be here and a new crowd starts coming in,” Isaacks said. “We are going to have quite a few officers out there working two shifts throughout. There will be a lot of coverage and visibility.” 
DWI enforcement officers have been added to the rotation this year to target underage drinkers and those driving under the influence. 
“Our efforts will be focused on trying to keep the alcohol level from becoming such a big factor in problems,” Isaacks told Corpus Christi Business News. “That’s what usually leads to major issues out there — the alcohol-related issues.” 
The added expense in manpower and overtime will be worth it, Isaacks said.
“Our goal is for the tourists and Spring Breakers to have a good time and enjoy themselves,” she said. “We want them to enjoy the restaurants, bars, clubs, the beach, but we want it to be safe.”
Isaacks offered some advice for newcomers to the area who might not be aware that driving along the beach equals driving on a public roadway. 
“All the rules and traffic laws that apply on a regular paved roadway apply on the beach,” she said.  Her advice for residents is to “prepare for delays and heavy traffic.”
Her advice for everyone is to be patient.
“Don’t lose your temper,” she said. “Know going in that there are going to be delays everywhere.”