Houston Leaders Honor Legacy of Commissioner El Franco Lee

New memorial plaza and highway dedicated to longtime county commissioner

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Houston leaders gathered today to pay tribute to the legacy of the late Commissioner El Franco Lee, who served Harris County for over 30 years. Lee's son, El Franco Lee II, expressed gratitude for the new memorial plaza and highway named in his father's honor, saying it will allow the public to enjoy and be aware of his father's lasting impact. State Senator Borris Miles and State Representative Harold Dutton, who helped pass legislation for the memorial, praised Commissioner Lee as one of the region's most prolific and respected leaders.

Why it matters

El Franco Lee was a pioneering African American politician who dedicated his career to improving his community in Houston. The new memorial ensures his legacy will be remembered for generations to come, honoring his decades of public service and commitment to the people of Harris County.

The details

The memorial plaza and portion of U.S. 59 renamed in Commissioner Lee's honor were made possible through legislation passed by State Senator Borris Miles and State Representative Harold Dutton. Lee's son, El Franco Lee II, expressed his appreciation for the tributes, stating that the memorial will allow the public to enjoy and be aware of his father's lasting impact on the region.

  • The memorial plaza and highway renaming ceremony took place on February 28, 2026.

The players

Commissioner El Franco Lee

A longtime Harris County Commissioner who served the region for over 30 years before his passing.

El Franco Lee II

The son of Commissioner El Franco Lee, who spoke at the memorial dedication ceremony.

State Senator Borris Miles

A state senator who helped pass legislation to rename a portion of U.S. 59 in honor of Commissioner Lee.

State Representative Harold Dutton

A state representative who collaborated with Sen. Miles to pass the legislation renaming the highway after Commissioner Lee, his longtime friend.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This plaza is just the most breathtaking thing I've ever seen in my life. Having my Dad honored in this way, I just want the public to be able to enjoy it and be aware of it. And may it be a staple in Downtown Houston.”

— El Franco Lee II (aframnews.com)

“El Franco is one of our greats. He was a giant among men, and this memorial highway will always remind us of El Franco Lee's presence.”

— State Senator Borris Miles (aframnews.com)

“Thanks to my commissioner and everyone who has been a part of this because we couldn't have done this for a better public servant and a better friend.”

— State Representative Harold Dutton (aframnews.com)

The takeaway

The dedication of the El Franco Lee memorial plaza and highway renaming is a fitting tribute to a trailblazing public servant who left an indelible mark on Houston and Harris County through decades of tireless work to improve his community.