Officials will attend a ceremony today where they will receive a federal grant to restore and renovate an historic building. U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela, D-Brownsville and Pedro Garza, regional director of the U.S. Economic Development Administration will announce a $1.2 million grant to buy and restore a building that will become a new Culinary Arts Institute.
The announcement will take place at 11:30 a.m. at the Port Isabel Yacht Club Restaurant and Hotel, 700 N. Yturria St. The EDA grant will support the renovation of the Yacht Club Hotel and restore the landmark to its original state. The institute is expected to create new jobs to serve students and will include a fully functioning restaurant and kitchen. The city plans to use its unique history and heritage to promote tourism to the area.
“I would like to thank the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration for providing the funding opportunity to the City of Port Isabel for the purchase and restoration of the historic Port Isabel Yacht Club Hotel,” Mayor Joe E. Vega said. “Not only will this historical building be restored but, the building will be converted into a Culinary Arts Institute with a boutique hotel for visiting chefs.” Vega said it will also allow additional economic opportunities by providing incubator space for upcoming businesses and a museum to showcase the Yacht Club’s history. “This project will improve the quality of life for our citizens and is a great example of preserving the past for our future,” he said.
KAYLEIGH SOMMER
