Mont Belvieu, Texas is a rapidly growing suburb 35 miles east of Houston that benefits from proximity to large energy sector employers, new transportation arteries and strong economic development. Mont Belvieu planners and developers needed a comprehensive gateway and wayfinding plan to make a strong first impression, foster community identity and recognition, and drive continued growth.

M2L Associates worked closely with the city on three distinct project phases to provide streetscape and landscape design services and to create and execute a signature gateway system. During the first phase, M2L delivered a unique, citywide wayfinding plan to guide future execution and development. Overhead street signs, corner post signs, advance signs and directional signs incorporate Mont Belview’s branding and logo to help reinforce the community’s boundaries and sense of place. Phase 2 included the design and completion of the new gateway from I-10 into central Mont Belview, while the third phase will see development and execution of complementary freeway gateways at main intersections with Texas SH 99 (to be funded).

Mont Belview’s highest-profile intersection at I-10 and Eagle Drive is the signature gateway, drawing residents and visitors from miles away with the large, distinctive stonework and dramatic, lighted art features. M2L’s overall concept included berms on either side of Eagle Drive at I-10 to create a base for an 8-ft signage wall and 40-ft internally dynamic, illuminated columns to mark the main entry into Mont Belview. M2L designers deconstructed the logo and incorporated elements within the environmental graphic features. The highly visible, dual columns feature innovative RGB-controlled, LED lights that allow city planners to use more color lighting options to complement state and national holidays and to celebrate Houston events or sports teams.