Bay Vista property owners request Seabrook to abandon public road for gated community

In the heart of Seabrook, Texas, a significant discussion unfolded during the City Council meeting on December 3, 2024, as residents voiced their desire for enhanced security and privacy in their neighborhood. The focus of the meeting was a proposal from the Bay Vista Property Owners Association, led by Steve Belmonte, to convert Bay Vista Drive from a public roadway into a private, gated street.

Belmonte, a long-time resident, expressed the community's concerns about safety, citing instances of late-night disturbances and unwanted visitors. "We have people knocking on resident's doors at 10 PM, 11 PM," he shared, emphasizing the need for a secure environment. The proposal aims to address these issues by allowing the property owners to take over maintenance and security, thereby improving traffic control and privacy.

The plan includes the installation of a beautiful gate and eco-friendly landscaping, designed to enhance the neighborhood's aesthetic while ensuring that emergency services and public utilities remain accessible. Belmonte assured the council that all property owners were in agreement with the proposal, stating, "I asked 100% they're all in."

However, the path to making Bay Vista Drive a private road is not straightforward. City officials explained that the process involves public hearings, appraisals, and legal considerations regarding existing public utilities. The council must first express interest in the proposal before the property owners can begin the lengthy process of abandonment.

As the meeting progressed, council members engaged in discussions about the implications of the request. Questions arose regarding drainage and the number of homes in the area, with Belmonte noting that there are currently ten homes built, with more planned for the future.

The proposal reflects a growing trend among communities seeking to enhance their living environments through increased security measures. As the Bay Vista residents await feedback from the council, the outcome of this request could set a precedent for similar initiatives in Seabrook, shaping the future of neighborhood safety and community engagement.