Located 20 miles from Houston's downtown, the Texas coast city of Seabrook is building a new cultural center based on a reciprocal agreement with Equator which will lure Houstonians, Ecuadorians, and other visitors, as well as new residents.

Says Realtor Magda Prus, "The city of Seabrook is planning to build a $500,000 visitors center. This center will highlight the culture of Ecuador. This 7,000-square-foot facility should open in March or April at a site along Texas 146, according to our Mayor Robin Riley. "The center will feature a few retail shops, a multimedia cultural center and a museum that will be divided into four major exhibits highlighting the country's Amazonian, coastal and mountainous regions and the Galapagos Islands."

Continues Prus, "The City of Seabrook has a sister-city agreement with the Galapagos Islands. It is a belief that this will be an enjoyable experience and a major asset for the city. The city projects that it will need to expand the center within a few years to meet visitors' demands. Approximately 500 Ecuadorians visit the city a year according to the mayor, but it is expected that this figure will increase to 20,000 because Ecuador plans heavy promotions for the city. It is said that Ecuadorian government will help pay for part of the center's construction cost and the city is attempting to secure several county, state, and federal grants for this project. Ecuador is a fairly progressive county and is excited about the opportunity."

Other amenities offered by Seabrook include the Kemah Boardwalk, located within the city, says Prus. "Just 20 miles from Downtown Houston, it has quickly evolved from a waterfront dining experience to a weekend destination. With it's Kemah Inn, the finest brand-name restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment, it is a perfect family get-a-way. Kemah boasts some of the most recognized names in the restaurant industry."

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Published: October 7, 2003

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