Galveston, TX – The Port of Galveston is planning for a big and exciting future. Officials are working on a new 20-year master plan to guide the next phase of growth, including expanding cruise travel, increasing cargo handling, and developing the city’s waterfront.
Now, the port is inviting the public to give suggestions and share ideas to help shape this vision.
Why Is Galveston Creating a New Plan?
The port has already seen massive growth in recent years. Since the first master plan in 2019, Galveston has nearly doubled its revenue, growing from $43.5 million in 2018 to $79.3 million in 2024.
Some big achievements include:
Opening two new cruise terminals
Expanding cargo operations
Investing in modern infrastructure to support job growth and the local economy
Now, Galveston is preparing for the next 20 years of growth and wants the public to be part of the planning.
Open House Event for Public Input
A public open house will be held on Wednesday, August 13, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Cruise Terminal 28. Experts from Bermello Ajamil and Partners (BA) will present research, answer questions, and collect feedback from residents.
What’s in the New Master Plan?
The draft plan includes several ambitious goals across cruise, cargo, and public development areas.
Cargo Growth Plans
Increase cargo tonnage from 3.4 million tons (2024) to 6 million tons in the next 10 years
Expand the West Port Cargo Complex
Add on-dock rail access
Consolidate rail yards
Build new cargo warehouses to attract materials like lumber
Cruise Industry Expansion
Galveston is already the 4th busiest cruise port in the U.S.
Passenger numbers may grow from 3.7 million (2025) to 9 million or more by 2045
Build new cruise terminals, parking garages, roadways, and supporting facilities
Waterfront and Tourism Development
The port also plans to create mixed-use spaces along Harborside Drive, such as:
Public parks and green spaces
Retail shops
Hotels and office buildings
Rental housing for families
One exciting idea is to develop Pier 10–16 with the historic Battleship Texas as a centerpiece. The battleship would be placed between Cruise Terminals 10 and 16, surrounded by a public park, hotel, retail outlets, and pedestrian walkways — turning it into a new attraction for locals and tourists.
Community Involvement Is Key
Rodger Rees, Port Director and CEO, said the current master plan has helped the port grow faster than expected. Now, they want the community’s ideas to improve the next version even more.
“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.
Galveston is growing fast, and with this new 20-year plan, the port is setting its sights even higher. From more cruise passengers and cargo to new public spaces and attractions, the future looks bright.
But the port wants to grow with the community, not just for it. This is a chance for residents to get involved and help shape what Galveston’s waterfront will look like for the next generation.
