New Seabrook Gateway Frames Growing Waterfront Area

SEABROOK, TX – November 10, 2011

City leaders and residents gathered on Wednesday to commemorate the official opening of the Seabrook gateway sign. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the welcoming archway near the entrance of the city’s waterfront district, known as the Point.

 

“This gateway is but one step in the city’s $7 million improvement effort intended to revitalize a prized coastal section of the city that is primed for expanded development of authentic fish markets and tasty seafood restaurants,” stated Glenn Royal, Mayor of Seabrook. “It is fun projects such as this that make me proud of the growing accomplishments of Seabrook.”

Visible while crossing the Seabrook-Kemah bridge, the gateway sign is part of a larger, master-planned initiative led by the San Jacinto Texas Historic District. “Seabrook is pleased to be the southern entry point to the Houston port region,” said Ernie Davis, President of the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation. “Through the gateway signage effort and similar projects, our goal is to enhance the city’s infrastructure and appeal to help current and new businesses thrive.”

The Seabrook gateway is one of eleven frontage signs constructed through Project Stars. Grant monies from the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region and the Houston-Galveston Area Council, along with funding through the city’s half-cent tax dedicated to economic development programs, were used to fund design and construction.

Built by Knudson, L.P., the gateway was completed on schedule and contains common elements found in all Project Stars signage that promote Texas history and independence. Economic Alliance Chief Executive Officer, Chad Burke, stated, “These collective gateways bring awareness to our region while promoting heritage tourism.”

Each gateway sign is constructed of similar masonry and a replica of the star found atop the San Jacinto monument. The Seabrook sign, located on 10th Street, also includes elements reflecting the city’s nautical legacy.

Photo: Helping commemorate the gateway completion include (L to R) Seabrook City Councilman Kim Morrell, Knudson’s Bryan Janhsen, EDC board members Richard Tomlinson and Paul Dunphey, Economic Alliance CEO Chad Burke, Mayor Glenn Royal, EDC President Ernie Davis, EDC board members Natalie Picha and Gene Scott, Councilwoman Laura Davis and Councilman Thom Kolupski.