Lake Jackson wins Texas "Tourism Friendly" designation, city and chamber to promote area attractions

Lake Jackson officials said the city received a Tourism Friendly designation from the Office of the Governor's Travel Texas division, a certification city staff and the Brazosport Chamber of Commerce intend to use to promote regional attractions.

"This certification was achieved after Edith at the chamber reached out to us to see if we would be willing to collaborate," said Laura Marie, a city presenter. "This is really her baby. This is her gift to our city." The designation builds on the city's existing "film friendly" status, city staff said.

City staff and chamber representatives told the council the designation can boost community pride and serve as an economic development tool. The presenters noted local assets such as Sea Center Texas, the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, the revitalized downtown, Lake Jackson Historical Museum and area golf courses as attractions that contributed to the recognition.

According to the presenters, about 120 communities initially applied nationwide; the program shortlisted 80 and awarded 40 designations in the first year. Lake Jackson officials said their jurisdiction was part of a multi-city application that succeeded in the program's first round.

Council members asked about recertification frequency. City staff said recertification is not annual; the governor's office may seek to re-evaluate cities roughly every five years but is not currently on a regular annual cycle. The mayor thanked chamber and staff representatives for their work.

City staff said the governor's Travel Texas office provides additional promotional resources to participating communities and encouraged residents to view the region as a destination.

The council did not take formal action at the meeting; staff said they would follow up with promotional steps and continue to coordinate with the Brazosport Chamber of Commerce.