 |
|
A Publication of Guidry News Service |
|
|
|
|
A Publication of Guidry News Service |
Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson has reviewed the City of Galveston's proposed beach access plan, which was developed in consultation with his staff, and recommends that the city move forward with it, with some changes. His comments are included in a letter to Galveston Planning Director Wendy O'Donohoe. As an alternative to the seasonal access that was proposed east of Stewart Beach, Patterson suggests that the area be opened year-round to vehicles as a "special use area" for persons with disabilities, saltwater fishermen and the launching of non-motorized personal watercraft. Patterson recommends that the same blend of vehicular access recommended between Access Point 33 at the Bay Harbor Subdivision and Access Point 35 at Salt Cedar Avenue be continued, but changed to one-way traffic. Patterson also recommends that any expansion of vehicular access in front of Galveston Island State Park be eliminated from the plan. "The city does not have authority to impose a beach access plan in state parks," Patterson said. Patterson said the General Land Office is committed to maintaining diversity of access to Galveston beaches. "This would include providing for appropriate handicap, special purpose and vehicular access to the public beaches," Patterson said. "In addition, because beach user and vehicular access fees may impact public access to the beach, we would appreciate the opportunity to review any proposed beach user/parking fees simultaneously with the beach access plan."
|