Karff served as the senior rabbi of Congregation Beth Israel from 1975 to 1999. He also advocated for civil rights, social justice and equality, according to a news release.
What residents should know
The Rabbi Samuel Karff Bridge is anticipated to open to the public in the fall, according to Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Total cost for the project was $3 million.
“The late Rabbi Samuel Egal Karff dedicated his life to fostering understanding, unity and justice while faithfully serving Congregation Beth Israel—the oldest Jewish congregation in Houston. It is our profound honor to dedicate this pedestrian bridge in his memory—a bridge that symbolizes the connections he tirelessly worked to build across communities," Ellis said in a news release.
Three of the late rabbi's daughters were in attendance flagged by state, county and local officials. (Melissa Enaje/Community Impact)
“Our father, Rabbi Samuel Karff, devoted his life to building bridges—bridges that connect hearts and minds across the divides of race, religion and ideology. It fills us with profound pride that Commissioner Rodney Ellis, who knew and worked with our dear father, is commemorating our father's enduring legacy by dedicating this beautiful pedestrian bridge in his name," the Karff daughters said in a statement.
Meyerland resident Katy Antill said her home and art studio are separated by the bayou, so the construction of this bridge also serves as a safety upgrade instead of crossing on Stella Link Road.
"Whenever you see an investment in a community by the county, it's such a nice thing. The bayou is a gift to our city, and to be able to have elements that make you want to go out and see it, it's a little treasure," Antill said.
The details
Construction on the 634-linear-foot bridge will span Brays Bayou Greenway from North to South Braeswood boulevards. The bridge will be maintained by the Houston Parks Board, according to Beth White, the Houston Parks board president and CEO, who referred to Karff as an extraordinary leader.
"We often refer to Brays Bayou Greenway as the 'United Nations of Greenways' connecting so many diverse communities, from the historic East End, which is primarily Latino, going through MacGregor Park, coming through this area, coming out to the Asian communities. It's really an extraordinary place. When it's all completed, we'll have 40 miles of connected greenways just along Brays alone," White said.
