City of Seabrook Recognized by H-GAC for Bayside Park Expansion Concept

Award Honors Excellence in Parks and Natural Areas Planning

The City of Seabrook has been recognized by the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) through its Parks and Natural Areas Awards Program in the category of On-the-Ground Project Over $500,000 for the Bayside Park Expansion concept.

The award recognizes outstanding park planning and design projects across the region and highlights communities demonstrating innovation, environmental stewardship, and long-term community impact.

Bayside Park represents the transformation of a former wastewater treatment plant site into a future waterfront destination that will reconnect Old Seabrook to Galveston Bay. The project is currently in the final design phase; however, the award acknowledges the strength of the City’s vision, stakeholder-driven planning process, and commitment to resilient, sustainable design through the conceptual design phase.

The conceptual plan for the 2.35-acre park and adjacent streetscape improvements includes expanded public access to the back bay area in Old Seabrook, ecological restoration through native coastal prairie and shoreline plantings, improved pedestrian connectivity, and amenities that support education, recreation, and community gatherings. The design also incorporates storm-resilient features, including improved drainage and flexible site elements, to help prepare for severe weather events.

The project was developed through a collaborative effort involving Kimley-Horn and Associates, the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation, the Galveston Bay Estuary Program, the Galveston Bay Foundation, local business owners, residents, and other key stakeholders. Community engagement played a central role in shaping a plan that supports economic vitality while preserving the character and natural environment of Old Seabrook.

“This recognition reflects the thoughtful planning and strong partnerships behind the vision for Bayside Park,” said Mayor Jim Sweeney. “We appreciate H-GAC for recognizing the importance of investing in public spaces that strengthen our community and protect the natural resources that make Seabrook unique.”

Kristi Hatfield, a local business owner in Old Seabrook who participated in the planning process, also emphasized the importance of early collaboration.

“This award recognizes the importance of doing the hard work upfront; listening, planning, and designing with purpose,” Hatfield said. “Bayside Park represents a thoughtful step toward reinvesting in Old Seabrook in a way that respects its character while planning responsibly for the future.”

The Seabrook City Council, in partnership with the Seabrook Economic Development Corporation, has approved a final design contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates. Final design work will proceed while demolition of the former wastewater treatment plant is underway. The demolition contractor has mobilized, and the final design is currently anticipated to be completed in late 2026.

^{Pictured left to right: Sean Landis, Mayor Jim Sweeney, Kristi Hatfield, Tracy Powell, & Justin Bower}