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Brazosport's Clute, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach Earn 'Tourism Friendly' Status from Travel Texas

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Published on March 08, 2025
Brazosport's Clute, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach Earn 'Tourism Friendly' Status from Travel TexasSource: Wikipedia/World Travel & Tourism Council, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Greg Abbott extended recognition to the Brazosport communities of Clute, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach for being certified as Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Communities by Travel Texas. This certification was awarded in the inaugural year of the program after the communities completed a multi-step certification process to support their tourism potential, according to the Office of the Texas Governor.

"Tourism is critical to both our local and state economies, supporting one in 11 jobs across Texas." Travelers generate over $193.8 billion annually, sustaining 1.3 million jobs. The Brazosport Convention & Visitors Council's efforts to promote tourism have been recognized. Travel Texas Director Tim Fennell mentioned attractions such as Lake Jackson's commerce and Surfside Beach's coastline. Edith Fischer, the council's Tourism Director, noted the region's unique offerings and its continued economic impact, as reported by the Office of the Texas Governor.

Local leaders have welcomed their communities' designation under the Tourism Friendly Texas Community program by Travel Texas, which helps support tourism promotion and economic development. Clute Mayor Calvin Shiflet said, "From events like the Great Texas Mosquito Festival to our location as the gateway to great beaches and home to the Brazosport Center for Arts and Science, Clute is in a great position to welcome any and all who want to enjoy everything we have to offer here on the Texas Coast." Surfside Beach Mayor Zach Parsch mentioned the city’s reputation as a top surfing destination and invited visitors to explore. The designation provides access to state resources aimed at enhancing local tourism and boosting economic growth, as stated by the Office of the Texas Governor.