TopSide Marinas has expanded on Lake Belton in Central Texas with its recent acquisition of Frank’s Marina, following its purchase of North Point Marina in 2022. Work on the docks and additional slips is planned as part of the investment in the marina.

In 1953, Frank’s Marina began as a small food operation started by Frank Smith near the construction site of Belton Dam. After the dam was completed, the business grew from a food truck and fishing dock into a marina and restaurant.

Jim and Cindy Hightower took a controlling interest in the business in 2005 and, three years later, opened The Dead Fish Grill with a group of local investors. They have since run the restaurant alongside the marina for 18 years.

Today, the marina serves boaters under a US Army Corps of Engineers lease through the Fort Worth District, with about 175 slips, boat rentals, fuel sales and a marina store. The property sits between Austin and Dallas and joins TopSide Marinas’ portfolio, which includes properties in Texas, Missouri,Oklahoma, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Illinois and Wisconsin.

Michael McMahon, regional vice president of TopSide Marinas, said: “We are excited to welcome Frank’s Marina to TopSide Marinas. Lake Belton has become a very important market for us, and Frank’s Marina is a property with tremendous potential. The marina has a loyal customer base, a great location and a long-standing reputation in the community. We look forward to building on that legacy while continuing to provide exceptional experiences for boaters.” 

TopSide says its approach is to preserve the character of its marinas while supporting local communities and making improvements for boaters and staff. At Frank’s Marina, the company aims to reconstruct two existing docks and add new slips to increase capacity. James River Dock Services, TopSide’s in-house dock construction and marine infrastructure company, will work on the dock improvements.

McMahon added: “We see significant opportunities to enhance the marina while preserving what makes it special. Our focus is always on improving the boating experience through thoughtful investments, quality infrastructure and outstanding customer service. We are excited about the future of Frank’s Marina and the role it will continue to play on Lake Belton.”  

Jim Hightower said: “Frank’s Marina should be the premier marina on Lake Belton. To achieve that vision, it takes significant investment, strong operations and a commitment to long-term growth. We knew TopSide had the experience, resources and passion to continue improving the marina while honouring its history and the customers who call it home.” 

Gerrel Williams will remain marina manager alongside the existing team under the new ownership. The Hightowers and their investor group also plan to continue developing the restaurant and surrounding property, including additional hospitality offerings, event and venue space and overnight lodging.

Cindy Hightower commented: “We’re excited about what this means for the future. TopSide’s investment in the marina complements our plans for the restaurant and surrounding acreage. Together, we believe we can create something truly special for the Lake Belton community and everyone who visits the lake.” 

Images courtesy of Frank's Marina.