Transforming Texas Coastal Living: Southerland Communities Takes Over The Reserve at St. Charles Bay

Southerland Communities Takes a Big Step in Texas Coastal Development

Rockport, Texas — September 8, 2026 — In a significant development announcement, Southerland Communities, a family-owned development firm based in Texas, has acquired The Reserve at St. Charles Bay. This gorgeous waterfront community is well-regarded for its luxurious homes and exceptional amenities, and it represents a notable expansion in Southerland's ambitious growth plans.

Established in 2008 by McCombs Enterprises, The Reserve is celebrated as the Coastal Bend's premier bayfront community, attracting water and nature enthusiasts alike. Nestled next to the scenic Goose Island State Park, each residence within the community boasts waterfront access, with many homes featuring backyard docks that lead directly into the stunning Aransas Bay system.

Jay Patterson, President of Southerland Communities, stated, "The Reserve is an extraordinary community in an exceptional coastal setting. We respect the rich legacy that McCombs Enterprises has built, and we aim to continue this legacy while providing new opportunities for families to enjoy the beauty of this part of the Texas coast."

The leadership team at Southerland, comprised of Patterson and Dan Mullins, has extensive experience in developing thoughtfully designed residential communities. Their commitment to understanding the unique charm of the Texas coastline positions Southerland as an ideal steward for The Reserve’s ongoing growth and improvements. Both Patterson and Mullins cherish personal connections to the Texas coast, having grown up visiting the area and still owning property there. This intimate familiarity with the locale fuels their dedication to enhancing both the community and its surrounding environment.

Currently, The Reserve at St. Charles Bay hosts 120 homes, accompanied by features like a 500-foot fishing pier, resort-style pools, parks, and more than two miles of waterfront boardwalks. With roughly half of the project's 130 acres still available for development, Southerland Communities is poised to introduce additional canals and new waterfront homesites, thereby enhancing an already thriving community.

"We are delighted to pass the torch of The Reserve to Southerland Communities," remarked Harry Adams, Managing Director of McCombs Enterprises. "As a fellow family-owned Texas business, they understand the significance of creating spaces meant for generations of families. Southerland is the ideal partner to move The Reserve forward, crafting a unique environment where Texas families can gather year after year to create lasting memories."

Southerland Communities has a storied history of crafting planned residential developments that resonate with the natural beauty of their locations and enrich the lives of their residents. Their strategic focus on quality and family values ensures that communities not only meet the immediate needs of today’s families but also stand the test of time for future generations.

As Southerland Communities embarks on this new chapter with The Reserve at St. Charles Bay, they are committed to reinforcing the essence of this remarkable community while welcoming even more families to experience the peace and splendor of coastal living in Texas.

For media inquiries, contact Jay Patterson at 361-316-7049 or email at [email protected].

Stay tuned for future updates as Southerland Communities works to enhance The Reserve's offerings, catering more intentionally to the needs of families who cherish life by the water.