City of Beaumont
Hello Friends,
Whether you already call Beaumont home, are considering making Beaumont your home or are just visiting, I want to take this opportunity to thank you for allowing us to make it “Another Great Day in Beaumont” for you and your family! The year 2018 marks our 180 1h Birthday which we will celebrate in December along with a Holiday Tree Lighting adding another annual celebration. We hope you can make it on December 5, 2018.
Almost half a million people live on our side, the right side of Texas, and Beaumont with a population of approximately 118,000, is the region’s largest city, the seat of Jefferson County, as well as our region’s hub for shopping, dining, entertainment, legal and medical services. It has been my honor to serve as Beaumont’s Mayor since 2007, after serving as an at-large member of the City Council for 13 years.
Progress continues in the revitalization of our beautiful downtown. Tree and brick paves line Calder Avenue which leads into our downtown, where events and activities can be constantly found at our Event Centre, Towne Lake, Beautiful Mountain Skate Park and the Rotary Centennial Playground. Exciting cultural, entertainment and civic events can also be found at our Civic Center and Historic Julie Rogers and Jefferson Theatres. The newest addition to downtown includes the Lakeside Center that will offer a variety of activities and events with some targeting our senior citizens. Quality of life is a priority for Beaumont. Such events as Dogtoberfest, Oktoberfest, Mediterranean Festival, Family Fire Festival at the Fire Safety Museum, Patriot Day, 4th of July Celebration and our newest celebration as mentioned above, our bilihday party and tree lighting celebration. The concert series of the Symphony of Southeast Texas along with numerous nationally-known musical artists as well as visual artists at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas and the Art Studio make Beaumont the cultural hub of our region.
In addition, Beaumont is uniquely located in close proximity to some of the finest outdoor activity amenities in Texas. Our city not only borders the Neches River but also borders the Big Thicket National Preserve, a forested preserve often cited as one of the most bio diverse areas in the world. Beaumont is also close to the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. With Sam Rayburn, Toledo Bend and Dam Blakes nearby, there are many hunting, fishing and birding opportunities. To enhance access to these recreational amenities we continue to upgrade and enhance our parks, nature and recreational facilities. Examples include the relatively new Cattail Marsh Boardwalk, a 300 foot nature boardwalk, located within a 900 acre wetland complex. The newest addition to this complex is the recently opened Wetlands Education Center made possible through the generous gifts of the Magnolia Garden Club. Beaumont is located on the North American bird migratory path and this new facility offers birders and visitors exceptional views to more than 350 species of birds that visit our city along with the resident bald eagle. In addition to the skate park and dog parks, we recently opened our second hike and bike trail, the Folsom Hike and Bike trail which is a 1.4 mile multi use trail extending from Dowlen Road to Folsom relatively close to the Gulf Terrace Hike and Bike Trail. In addition, you may want to visit our state of the art tennis center at the Municipal
Athletic Complex which also houses our softball complex. With another helping hand from the Magnolia Garden Club, Beaumont was recently named a Bee City one of only three in Texas.
As always, the business and educational sectors continue to thrive in Beaumont. Lamar Institute of Technology continues to provide world-class technical skills development for our business and industry, while Lamar University continues to expand. Celebrating another year of record enrollment, Lamar University completed new construction including the new Administration Building as well as the Center for Innovation, Commercialization and Entrepreneurship (CICE), which serves as an important link between the intellectual capital of the university and the business and industrial sectors of our community.
With regard to business and industry, many new companies and businesses continue to choose Beaumont as a sound investment. We continue to see significant business expansions. Recent projects like OCI’s new $1B methanol plant becoming the largest of that type in the US, along with two significant expansion projects at ExxonMobil’s Beaumont facilities in excess of $1.3B investments, Jefferson Energy’s new $55M intermodal export and import fuels terminal, and a $169M investment to build new marine and rail facilities and expanding the dock infrastructure to improve capacity at the Port of Beaumont. The Port of Beaumont is the #1 strategic military outload port in the nation, #5 in the nation in terms of tonnage and the #3 US Seaports’ Exports with the most growth by Forbes. Beaumont is the #1 exporter of crude in the nation and also #1 expmier of liquid natural gas which is a direct reflection of our pro-business climate.
I invite you to visit our website at www.beaumonttexas.gov to find out more about the City of Beaumont. Also for unique opportunities for you and your family, please download our entertainment app on your smartphone – DISCOVER BEAUMONT. Please join me to make it “Another Great Day in Beaumont”!
Sincerely,
Becky Ames
Mayor of Beaumont
Chamber Welcome
Welcome to Beaumont!
It doesn’t matter if you are experiencing our city as a visitor, a new member of the community or a someone that has been here all your life, one thing that is immediately evident is the friendly people that you encounter throughout your day. As a recent addition to the city myself, I see it every day – at the grocery store, at restaurants throughout the city and amongst our over 1,000 members’ businesses – people genuinely care. When they ask, “How are you doing?”, they are interested in your answer.
From the Chamber’s point of view, Beaumont is a great place to do business. Our city’s stance toward business helps in recruiting new and retaining existing companies. The Port of Beaumont serves as a shining star in our economy and facilitates the movement of a plethora of things – both in and out of the region. The petrochemical industry is huge here, but most importantly those major organizations are fantastic corporate citizens.
We can tackle one of the most important things to business today – workforce – with the combination of the Beaumont Independent School District, Lamar Institute of Technology and Lamar University. The fact they collaborate on certain projects means that we can drive a great workforce today and into the future.
Putting all that together, Beaumont is a great place to visit, a great place to live and a great place to do business.
If you are in the neighborhood, please take the time and stop by our offices and let us welcome you in person. If you just want some information on our community, visit our website www.bmtcoc.org.
Have a great day!
Bill Allen
President & CEO
Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce
Things To Do in Beaumont
Things To Do in Beaumont TX
Explore, eat and entertain your way through town
Gallivant through Southeast Texas one attraction at a time. Greater Beaumont boasts numerous places to see and events to attend, which are ideal for all ages and interests.
Art Museum of Southeast Texas
Browse magnificent works of arts through the museum’s exhibitions and collections. Check the museum’s calendar for engaging events.
Babe Didrikson Zaharias Museum
Known as the “World’s Greatest Female Athlete,” Mildred Ella “Babe” Didrikson Zaharias competed in the 1932 Summer Olympics, where she was awarded medals in high jump, hurdles and javelin. This museum pays homage to her achievements.
Beaumont Botanical Gardens
The botanical gardens, located at Tyrrell Park, can be visited during the park’s hours from daylight to dark each day for outside exhibits. The Warren Loose Conservatory is open throughout the week, except for Wednesdays and major holidays when it is closed. The garden boasts 23.5 acres of flowers and plants in a serene and peaceful setting.
Beaumont Children’s Museum
Kids’ imaginations run large as they browse science, technology, engineering, art and math while exploring the Beaumont Children’s Museum. Be sure not to miss the dinosaur den, a 3-D augmented reality sandbox and an artist’s square to create a masterpiece.
Beaumont Civic Center
Featuring more than 41,000-square feet of space, the Beaumont Civic Center is nestled in the heart of downtown along the Neches River. The venue is perfect for concerts, shows and other entertainment acts and occasions.
Beaumont Community Players
Entertaining audiences for more than 75 years, Beaumont Community Players perform Broadway plays, musicals and other productions. Shows from the 2018-19 season include “Kiss Me, Kate,” “Calendar Girls” and “Harvey.”
Beaumont Craft Beer Fest
Marking its fourth year in 2018, the Beaumont Craft Beer Fest offers several varieties of brews for sampling, staged at the Event Centre. Guests can also enjoy mouthwatering foods and live music.
Beaumont Rotary Centennial Playground
At the Beaumont Rotary Centennial Playground, this all-inclusive site is without barriers so all children, regardless of physical or developmental limitations, can play and interact with one another in a safe environment.
Birding
Explore the great outdoors while searching for beautiful birds. Grab a camera and a pair of binoculars and venture off to the area’s two migratory flyways, the Central and Mississippi, Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands & Boardwalk and Big Thicket National Preserve.
Casinos
Roll the dice at the many nearby casinos. Beaumont’s proximity positions residents and visitors close to hot gaming spots, such as L’Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel and Paragon Casino Resort.
Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands & Boardwalk
Take in breathtaking vistas and 900 acres of wetlands from the boardwalk and viewing platforms that stretch more than 500 feet across Cattail Marsh. Experience the sights and sounds of more than 250 species of birds, as well as aquatic mammals, in their natural habitat.
The Chambers House Museum
Take a glimpse into yesteryear with a visit to the Chamber House Museum, which was built in the early 1900s. The family of C. Homer and Edith Fuller Chambers lived in the home for almost 100 years. The house and furniture have been preserved and are a wonderful representation of life in Beaumont back then.
Courville’s Catering and Concert Series
Eat, sip and listen to tunes at Courville’s, where the cuisine and toe-tapping music cannot be beat. Catering is also available for those looking for the perfect meal to complement any event.
Dinosaur Day at the Texas Energy Museum
Children and adults revel at the annual Dinosaur Day at the Texas Energy Museum. This outdoor event highlights what it is like for real paleontologists, where children enjoy activities such as making dinosaur-inspired artwork and digging for fossils.
Dishman Art Museum
Situated on the beautiful campus of Lamar University, the Dishman Art Museum features a glimpse of the region’s diverse culture. With traveling exhibitions and a permanent collection of almost 1,000 works of art, the museum also serves as a teaching facility.
DOG-tober Fest
Canines give DOG-tober Fest two paws up. Entering its 11th year in 2018, this daylong celebration features parades, contests, a “Kiss a Puppy” booth, fortune telling with Madam Poodle Paw and Yappy Hour.
Downtown Beaumont’s Historic District
From performing arts to architecture, downtown Beaumont’s historic district pays homage to the past. Jefferson Theatre, Julie Rogers Theatre, Tyrrell Historical Library and Jefferson County Courthouse are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“Eat a Bug!” Family Arts Day
Celebrate Halloween at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas’s “Eat a Bug!” Family Arts Day. While you don’t have to eat a bug, literally, to attend, kids can brave the ultimate challenge at this annual event. In addition to learning about the Day of the Dead, art activities and snacks await.
Eco-Fest and Butterfly Release
This all-day event takes place each year in honor of Earth Day at the Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. The occasion is fun for the whole family and features games, activities and, of course, the butterfly release.
Edison Museum
History buffs can learn more about Thomas Edison at this museum, which boasts more than 1,400 artifacts. Visitors can see some of Edison’s most famous inventions and explore the museum’s interactive exhibits.
Fire Museum of Texas Dalmatian Hydrant
Spanning nearly 25 feet tall, this Dalmatian-spotted fire hydrant was donated to the city by Walt Disney in honor of 101 Dalmatians. The structure stands in front of the Fire Museum of Texas, welcoming both four-legged friends and their owners to Beaumont.
Ford Park Entertainment Complex
Situated on more than 220 acres of land, the Ford Park Event Center hosts numerous sporting, convention and entertainment events throughout the year.
Fourth of July Celebration
The skies illuminate in red, white and blue hues as fireworks cap off the Fourth of July. In addition to the spectacular fireworks display, this event is free of charge and offers a laser show, live music and lots of fun.
Gator Country
Looking for an adventure like no other? Visit Gator Country, which is home to more than 450 American alligators, crocodiles and other reptiles. The park is fun and educational for those of all ages.
Gift of Life Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run Color Rush
Lace up your sneakers for a good cause. The Gift of Life Julie Richardson Procter 5K Ribbon Run Color Rush proceeds go toward life-saving cancer screenings and lifesaving educational outreach
Golf
Tee off at Aquila Golf, Inc., Beaumont Country Club, Brentwood Country Club and Idylwild Golf Club for a fun, challenging round. Those looking to brush up on their swing can get some pointers at Mitch Duncan Golf Academy. And for an entertaining day out, head on over to Topgolf, which is great for dates, company outings and family fun
Gusher Marathon
Runners of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the annual Gusher Marathon, Half Marathon or 5K. Set a new personal record or even qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
Humane Society of Southeast Texas Bike Ride & Wine Tasting
Get ready to roll! Bikers can choose from 16-, 32- or 47-mile routes. Once you cross the finish line, rehydrate with lunch and a wine tasting. Proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Southeast Texas.
Jazz at the Lake
What could be better than music on the lake? This free series features popular and up-and-coming musicians every year. Beer and wine tastings, as well as food, are also part of the fun.
Jefferson Theatre
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Jefferson Theatre hosts weekly classic movie nights and performances throughout the year.
John Jay French House Museum
The John Jay French House celebrates the life and times of a wealthy Texas pioneer family. Built in 1845, the house is now a museum and was one of the first two-story painted and made from milled lumber homes in the area. A tannery, blacksmith shop, privy and smokehouse are located on the grounds as well.
Libations
Del Papa Distributing and Giglio Distributing have their pulse on the adult beverage industry in greater Beaumont. Be sure to visit Del Papa Distributing’s website regularly for can’t-miss events, such as pint nights, Giglio Distributing is a wholesale beverage distributor of brands like Modelo, Pabst Blue Ribbon and Corona.
LobsterFest Golf Tournament
Mixing business with pleasure, the annual LobsterFest Golf Tournament takes place each spring. The event is sponsored by the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce and features golf, of course, as well as a famous steak and lobster dinner.
Lucas Gusher at Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum
Discover how the petroleum age began on Spindletop Hill, home of the Lucas Gusher, which burst in 1901. Tour the museum and see a two-minute re-enactment of the Lucas Gusher.
McFaddin-Ward House Museum
Home to W.P.H. McFaddin and his family, this home was built in the early 1900s. Take a guided tour of the home, attend year-round events or attend popular lecture series.
Moody Gardens
Open 365 days a year, Moody Gardens in Galveston is ideal for both the young and young at heart. Animal lovers will revel at otter, penguin and seal exhibits. Visitors will also enjoy the splash pad, jogging trail, Vietnam Memorial and zipline course, among others.
Neches River Adventures
See more than 300 birds, 47 mammals over 200 tree species, as well as amphibians and reptiles up close aboard the Ivory Bill. This open boat floats along the Neches River for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Oktoberfest
This free family event is staged each fall at Rogers Park. Guests enjoy a day of food, beer and entertainment.
Parkdale Mall
Whether looking for beauty products, trendy clothing, jewelry or something else, Parkdale Mall is a one-stop shop. Be sure to hit up the food court, which operates several notable and delicious chains.
Picnics in the Park
Beautiful weather and ample amounts of park space, Beaumont is the ideal place to pack a picnic and spend some time with family and friends. Find a spot at tables, gazebos or fire pits at one of the city’s parks.
Rogers Park
During the warmer months, cool off at Rogers Park. The space has a water playground, as well as a regular playground, basketball and tennis courts, a community center and covered shelters for enjoyment year-round.
Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center
The beauty of nature can been seen with every glance of the eye at Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center. This 252-acre ecosystem features more than 300 plant species, as well as a heronry blind where visitors can watch nesting birds.
South Texas State Fair & Rodeo
This annual event boasts carnival rides, a rodeo, finger-licking foods and entertainment. The event is hosted by the Young Men’s Business League.
Stark Cultural Venues
For a wide variety of cultural experiences, visit any or all of the Stark Cultural Venues, including the Stark Museum of Art, Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, W.H. Stark House and Lutcher Theater. From works of art to live performances, these venues offer something for all interests.
Summer Movie Madness
Set underneath the stars, Summer Movie Madness is the ultimate family friendly event and is free to attend. The series takes place monthly from May to August.
Symphony of Southeast Texas
The Symphony of Southeast Texas has been receiving a round of applause from audiences for more than 60 years with performances that range from classical to contemporary. Attendees enjoy pops, holiday music and classics.
Texas Energy Museum
Learn about the history of Texas oil from talking robots and state-of-the-art exhibits that detail the Lone Star State’s active role in this fascinating field. It’s fun for adults and educational for students.
Tilt Studio
With over 150 attractions such as laser tag, bumper cars, mini bowling and black light mini golf, Tilt Studio is a great place to unwind and have a good time. A snack bar offers pizza, nachos, drinks and other tasty treats.
Tyrrell Park
This park has it all. With a 2.8-mile walking trail, basketball courts, sheltered picnic tables, Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands & Boardwalk and Beaumont Botanical Gardens, Tyrrell Park is one of the city’s top destinations.
For more even more things to see and do, visit the Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau website, the ultimate resource for travel information. www.VisitBeaumontTX.com
Newcomer Information
Emergency / Medical
In case of an emergency, please dial 911.
Hospitals
Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas
(409) 212-5000
3080 College St., Beaumont
CHRISTUS Hospital – St. Elizabeth
(409) 892-7171
2830 Calder Ave., Beaumont
Medical Center of Southeast Texas
(409) 724-7389
2555 Jimmy Johnson Blvd., Port Arthur
Medical Center of Southeast Texas-Victory Campus
(409) 617-7700
6025 Metropolitan Dr., Beaumont
Fire Department
Beaumont Fire-Rescue
(409) 880-3905
400 Walnut St., Beaumont
Law Enforcement
Beaumont Police Department
(409) 980-7271
700 Orleans St., Beaumont
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
(409) 835-8411
1001 Pearl St., #103, Beaumont
Department of Family & Children Services
Texas Department of Family and Protective Services – Beaumont
(409) 730-1099
3105 Executive Blvd., Beaumont
Government
Federal
U.S. Senators
John Cornyn
(202) 224-2934
517 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC
Ted Cruz
(202) 224-5922
404 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC
U.S. Representatives
Brian Babin
(202) 225-1555
316 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC
Orange District Office
(409) 883-8075
1201 Childers Rd., Orange, TX 77630
Randy Weber
(202) 225-2831
1708 Longworth House Office Building, Washington
Beaumont Office
(409) 835-0108
505 Orleans St., Suite 103, Beaumont
State Senators
Brandon Creighton
(512) 463-0104
P.O. Box 12068, Capitol Station, Austin
District Office
(409) 838-9861
350 Pine St., Ste. 1450, Beaumont
Representatives
Joe D. Deshotel
(512) 463-0662
P.O. Box 2910, Austin
One Plaza Square, Suite 203 ,Port Arthur, TX 77642
(409) 724-0788
Dade Phelan
(512) 463-0706
Room E1.324
P.O. Box 2910, Austin
P.O. Box 848
(409) 745-2777
Nederland
Local
City Hall
(409) 880-3770
801 Main St., Beaumont
Mayor – Becky Ames
City Council
W.L. Pate, Jr., Council Member At-large
Bill Sam, Council Member, At-large
Virginia Jordan, Council Member, Ward 1
Mike Getz, Council Member, Ward 2
Audwin Samuel, Council Member, Ward 3
Robin Mouton, Council Member, Ward 4
County Commissioners
Jefferson County Commissioners Court
www.co.jefferson.tx.us
Everette “Bo” Alfred, Pct. 4
Eddie Arnold, Pct. 1
Brent Weaver, Pct. 2
Michael Sinegal, Pct. 3
Jeff Branick, County Judge
Courthouse
Beaumont Municipal Court (409) 980-8311
700 Orleans St., Beaumont
Libraries
Beaumont Public Library System
beaumonttexas.gov/departments/library/library-branches
Beaumont Public Library
(409) 838-6606
801 Pearl St., Beaumont
Elmo Willard Library
(409) 892-4988
3590 E. Lucas Dr., Beaumont
Maurine Gray Literacy Center
(409) 835-7924
801 Pearl St., Beaumont
R.C. Miller Library
(409) 866-9487
1605 Dowlen Rd., Beaumont
Theodore Johns Library
(409) 842-5223
4255 Fannett Rd., Beaumont
Tyrrell Historical Library
(409) 833-2759
695 Pearl St., Beaumont
Registrations
Automobile Drivers License
Motor Vehicle Department Beaumont
(409) 892-2491
8550 Eastex Fwy., Beaumont
License Plates and Registration
Jefferson County Courthouse
(409) 835-8459
1149 Pearl St., 1st Floor, Beaumont
Education
Board of Education
Beaumont Independent School District
(409) 617-5000
3395 Harrison Ave., Beaumont
Private Schools
All Saints Episcopal School
(409) 892-1755
4108 Delaware St., Beaumont
Harmony Science Academy
(409) 838-4000
4055 Calder Ave., Beaumont
Legacy Christian Academy
(409) 924-0500
8200 TX-105, Beaumont
St. Anne Catholic School
(409) 832-5939
375 N. 11th St., Beaumont
St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica School
(409) 832-3486
850 Forsythe St., Beaumont
Higher Education
Brightwood College
(409) 347-5900
6115 Eastex Fwy., Beaumont
Lamar Institute of Technology
(409) 880-8185
855 E. Lavaca, Beaumont
Lamar University
(409) 880-8405
4400 M.L. King Pkwy., Beaumont
Vista College
(409) 291-4900
3871 Stagg Rd., Ste. 194, Beaumont
Pets
Beaumont Animal Services
(409) 838-3304
1884 Pine St., Beaumont
Humane Society of Southeast Texas
(409) 833-0504
2050 Spindletop Ave., Beaumont
Utilities
Cable & Satellite Providers
AT&T
(409) 839-6000
Advanced Electronics
(409) 898-3626
Charter – Spectrum
(866) 874-2389
Electric
Entergy
(800) 968-3749
Gas
CenterPoint Energy
(800) 376-9663
Telephone
AT&T
(409) 839-6000
Charter – Spectrum
(866) 874-2389
Recycling
City of Beaumont- Solid Waste Division
(409) 842-1483
P.O. Box 3827, Beaumont
Water & Sewage
City of Beaumont-Solid Waste Division
(409) 842-1483
P.O. Box 3827, Beaumont
Transportation
When it comes to economic clout, the Port of Beaumont and the Sabine-Neches Navigation District create a powerful duo. They are distinct entities, working in close partnership to bring thousands of jobs and billions of dollars to the Texas and Beaumont economies, while sending goods and products around the globe.
A deep-water port near the mouth of Neches River, the Port of Beaumont is a world-class intermodal transportation facility served by three Class 1 rail carriers, with easy access to Interstate 10. Moreover, the Port of Beaumont Channel generates an economic impact of more than $20.95 billion annually.
Positioned on a deep-water channel with a 40-foot draft, the Port of Beaumont Channel is the nation’s No. 1 exporter of crude oil and liquid natural gas, with a refining capacity that is the third largest in the nation.
The waterway carries the diverse array of goods and products such as lumber, wind energy components, grain, petrochemicals and gasoline, driving the economies of Southeast Texas and the U.S.
“It’s the water highway that delivers 158 million tons of cargo each year, to energy, petrochemical and military users and consumers,” said Randy Reese, navigation district general manager. “The current annual economic benefits of the waterway to Jefferson County are more than $13 billion, with more than 135,000 permanent jobs.”
As the waterway flows, so does the fuel-rich economy.
“Refineries along the ship channel produce the majority of U.S. military jet fuel and 60 percent of the nation’s commercial jet fuel,” Reese said. “We’re projected to become the largest liquid natural gas exporter in the U.S and we’re home to the nation’s number one commercial military outload port.”
As a result of substantial economic growth along the waterway, and increased demand for capacity to support commerce and military operations, the navigation district is in the midst of a major expansion to deepen the waterway, which will present opportunities for diversification and growth for public and private facilities along the waterway.
“In 2014, President Barack Obama signed the Water Resource Development Act, authorizing the deepening project,” Reese said. “Since the authorization, we’ve received $2.3 million in federal money to complete the project engineering and design portion of the project this year. We’re working now to receive appropriations for general construction in the 2019 work plan, and then official construction will begin.”
The deepening takes the channel from 40 feet to 48, allowing larger ships to traverse the waterway and reach local ports. “This is very good news for our vital military cargo and vessels,” Reese said, “and the project secures our position as America’s energy gateway.”
Along with the deepening, opportunities for new business and development are brimming along the waterway.
“We have 22,000 acres of land bordering the waterway, owned by the district, industry, and the public, and it’s all for sale,” Reese said.
The port is growing in major ways, too.
Moving more than 2.2 million tons of dry bulk and 549,000 tons of break bulk in 2018, the port recently purchased a former Chicago Bridge & Iron facility, adding an additional 75 acres to its footprint. In an effort to facilitate development of the property, the port partnered with Allegiant Industrial Island Park, LLC to refurbish the facility, upgrade all utilities and rebuild the docks. Development activity will create approximately 200 full-time jobs to start, with the potential to add hundreds more as the facility grows.
“The Port of Beaumont is committed to creating jobs and acting as an economic engine in the community and we are optimistic about the business opportunities this property will present to Allegiant Industrial and the Port,” said Board President Lee Smith. “This project will set the stage for the Port and Allegiant Industrial to collaborate with our industrial neighbors and build upon the framework that already exists at the Island Park facility.”
Healthcare
Front and Center
Nursing Profession Soars in Beaumont and Beyond
Staying on the pulse of the latest medical trends, Lamar University has a strong grip on the health care industry and educates the next pool of talented medical professionals not only in greater Beaumont, but also across the state and nation.
“We have a very diverse nursing program, as well as pre-professional programs like pre-med and pre-dental,” said Cynthia Stinson, Lamar University School of Nursing chair. “We are responsible for educating nursing students, who go on to work at not just hospitals but also community clinics and public health. Nurses work everywhere.”
Lamar University is one of the top schools in the nation, and they have the numbers to back it up. Students obtain the skills they need to excel in their classes and during clinicals, so when they take their qualifying exam to become a registered nurse, they are highly prepared. The state average for passing this exam in 2017 was 89 percent; the national average was 87 percent. Lamar University came in at 97 percent in May 2018. Even after the devastation of Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Lamar University boasted a 94 percent passing rate.
Lamar University School of Nursing has a nationally accredited undergraduate program (BSN) and graduate program (MSN). The undergraduate program provides pre-licensure BSN and online RN-BSN/RN-MSN tracks. The graduate program offers online leadership/management and education tracks.
“We have a very dynamic graduate degree,” Stinson said. “Careers in nursing are growing. Not only in Beaumont but the nation as a whole has a shortage of nurses.”
As long as people continue to get sick, there will be a need for highly skilled nurses and other medical professionals.
“Baby boomers are retiring, and in our area, places are always looking for nurses,” Stinson said. “If you want a job, you have one. Lamar University students are highly recruited.”
While there is a need for more nurses, the benefits are nice too. Nurses make a great salary, but this profession is more than just bringing home a rewarding wage.
“Salaries are good, but it is really important to be a people person,” Stinson said. “You have to be a caring person and be passionate.”
Lamar University also participates in numerous research studies. The JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing Undergraduate Research delves into health literacy and HIV knowledge of young adults studying at Lamar University, effects of aromatherapy on anxiety levels in BSN students, exploring spirituality and spiritual care in nursing students and hospice nurses and expressive art and stress levels in cancer patients, just to name a few.
Education in Beaumont
Surplus of skills – Education in Beaumont
Courses Prepare Students For Far-Reaching Success
Coming together to propel the economy forward for years to come, the Beaumont Independent School District and Lamar Institute of Technology, along with other stakeholders, prepare students for the workforce.
The district’s career and technical education courses provide students with academic and technical skills they will need to excel after high school graduation. By participating in CTE classes, students can graduate with industry certifications, licenses, postsecondary certificates and degrees.
Devoted to helping students pursue careers that fulfill students’ abilities and interests, the district ensures that pupils can take advantage of any opportunities afforded to them. Likewise, students have the opportunity to take advanced placement courses, dual credit classes and explore careers before they graduate.
Moreover, the new Beaumont Independent STEM Center serves elementary and middle school students. Through the center, students can learn robotics, coding, 3-D printing, drones and forensic science, among others.
Lamar Institute of Technology’s Office of Workforce Training and Continuing Education boasts several educational and training opportunities. Through them, individuals can select from a broad range of courses — from special interest to workplace skills. The workforce education programs benefit individuals by providing additional training that will boost their skills, thereby increasing their value to Southeast Texas area businesses. Programs benefit current employees and employers by providing training on specific objectives — some with safety in mind and the opportunity to minimize injuries and damages from lawsuits. Classes are taught on campus or can be taught onsite at a company’s location.
The department also offers classes and programs in five categories to meet the community’s needs including workforce training programs, community education, corporate training, online and truck driving academy.
The continuing education office offers both in-person and online training programs. Depending on the subject, classes are offered from an eight-hour day to about six months long. For added convenience, classes are scheduled in the evening with some on weekends. Popular one-day certification training courses include forklift, aerial lift and HeartSaver First Aid CPR. Most of these classes are offered at no charge to the student, thanks to funding through an educational grant provided by Texas Mutual Insurance Company for safety training. Other popular in-person programs that are longer than a day, include truck driving, clinical medical assistant program, phlebotomy technician, dental assisting, AutoCAD drafting and welding.
By helping to enhance the employability of students and increase performance and career satisfaction, businesses in greater Beaumont will continue to soar. Better yet, training is offered on campus, off campus and through distance learning and continuing education units.
For more information on these classes, visit https://workforce.lit.edu/search.cfm or call (409) 880-8114.