Neptune Circle's Beach Access Transformed: New ADA Features Unveiled!
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham announced the completion of ADA-accessible improvements at Neptune Beach Access #16 on South Padre Island, enhancing public access with new facilities funded by the Coastal Management Program.

Neptune Circle's Beach Access Transformed: New ADA Features Unveiled!
On August 28, 2025, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham marked a significant achievement with the completion of construction at Neptune Circle, Beach Access #16, located on South Padre Island. This project, which was partly funded by the Texas General Land Office’s (GLO) Coastal Management Program (CMP), is now open to the public and ready to welcome beachgoers.
The enhancements made to this beach access are quite noteworthy. They include an ADA-compliant dune walkover, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can easily enjoy the beach. Additionally, a new permanent restroom and rinse station has been installed for the convenience of visitors, along with updates to the parking lot to facilitate better access. As Buckingham emphasized, this initiative enhances public beach access while also protecting the coastal ecosystem, fulfilling the dual aims of community accessibility and environmental stewardship.
Funding and Coastal Management Initiatives
The improvements at Neptune Circle are a testament to the efforts of the Texas Coastal Management Program, which has brought approximately $2.2 million in federal Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) funds to Texas. According to Texas General Land Office details, this program primarily focuses on protecting and enhancing coastal natural resource areas while providing public access. Since its inception in 1994, nearly $40 million has been allocated to various coastal grants. These funds have been allocated with various purposes in mind, from enhancing public beach access to restoring sensitive bay systems and wetlands, and addressing crucial coastal issues.
- Projects Funded:
- Technical assistance for land-use planning by Texas A&M University.
- Creation of a database for coastal species interactions.
- Support for environmental education in coastal communities.
In South Texas alone, projects funded under the CMP include notable improvements such as the Moonlight Beach Access Improvements and the Ocean Circle Beach Access Enhancements, demonstrating a strong commitment to developing accessible and sustainable beach environments.
The Role of the Texas General Land Office
The Texas General Land Office plays a crucial role in administering the Coastal Management Program, supported by key organizations like NOAA. This vital program not only supports public access improvements but also promotes coastal habitat protection and prepares against coastal hazards. Notably, the CMP allocates funding through a competitive grant process, allowing various local governments, educational institutions, and qualified nonprofits to apply for support.
With an annual distribution of approximately $2 million in federal funds and an additional funding track for larger projects, the GLO has managed to uphold the integrity of Texas’s coastal communities while ensuring their sustainable growth. This dual approach incorporates elements of green infrastructure and low-impact development methods, encouraging environmentally friendly practices across the board.
As Dr. Dawn Buckingham, Texas’s first female Land Commissioner and advocate for community safety and education, points out, these projects not only provide essential amenities but also foster a sense of connection between residents and their valuable coastal resources. The completion of the Neptune Circle access improvements serves as a bright example of successful collaboration and investment in Texas’s coastal future.
For more details about the Coastal Management Program and ongoing projects, you can visit the Texas General Land Office’s website here or check additional resources each step of the way here.
As we celebrate these important improvements, let’s remember that there’s always more to be done to protect our beaches and restore our ecosystems. After all, when it comes to our coastline, everyone has a role to play.