Galveston is seeking public input on a new 20-year master plan for its booming port, including major cruise growth, cargo expansion, and waterfront development.
GALVESTON, Texas — The Port of Galveston is charting a bold course for its future — and it wants the public to weigh in.
After years of unprecedented growth and major infrastructure wins, port officials are updating their Strategic Master Plan and inviting the community to help shape what comes next.
Since the original plan was adopted by the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees in 2019, the port has nearly doubled its revenue — jumping from $43.5 million in 2018 to $79.3 million in 2024 — and delivered on several major goals ahead of schedule. Those included opening two new cruise terminals, expanding cargo operations, and investing in infrastructure upgrades that have made Galveston a powerful engine for jobs and regional growth.
Now, port leadership is looking to the next 20 years.
Public invited to open house at Cruise Terminal 28
The port will host a public open house from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Cruise Terminal 28, where consultants from Bermello Ajamil and Partners (BA) will present their research and recommendations, answer questions, and collect feedback from the community.
The updated report outlines ambitious goals in both the cargo and cruise sectors:
- Cargo growth: The port plans to increase cargo tonnage from 3.4 million tons in 2024 to 6 million tons in 10 years. This would be achieved by expanding the West Port Cargo Complex, adding on-dock rail access, consolidating existing rail yards, and potentially building new warehouses to attract cargo like lumber.
- Cruise expansion: Galveston is already the fourth busiest cruise port in the U.S., and the new forecast shows even more growth on the horizon. With more than 3.7 million passenger movements expected in 2025, BA projects that the number could triple to 9 million or more by 2045. That would involve constructing additional cruise terminals, onsite parking garages, roadways, and other supporting infrastructure.
The plan also outlines potential mixed-use development along Harborside Drive, including parks, green space, retail, hotels, office space, and multi-family rental housing.
One of the most exciting concepts is the revitalization of the Pier 10–16 area, with the Battleship Texas placed between cruise terminals 10 and 16. A hotel, public park, retail, and pedestrian walkways would surround the battleship, creating a new attraction on the waterfront.
Building on success
Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees emphasized the importance of community engagement in the process.
“The current master plan has served us well. We’re looking forward to gathering public input to finalize the update and continue our journey to develop our port to its full potential for the benefit of our community and the region,” Rees said.