September 2, 2025
The Galveston Wharves is making great progress in updating its long-range master plan based on market research, public input and analysis of various scenarios.
It’s a thoughtful, thorough approach that served us well as we developed our first master plan in 2019. That hugely successful plan was built on market forecasts, port and community needs, and input from port partners and residents.
We aim to develop a plan that balances the port’s purpose and long-term resiliency with community needs. The port’s purpose is to generate and reinvest port revenues to create economic growth, jobs and other benefits for the Galveston community.
By following our 2019 plan, port gross revenues have almost doubled – from $43.5 million in 2018 to $79.3 million in 2024. We’ve leveraged our operating revenues, along with grants, public/private partnerships and bonds, to make major infrastructure investments in our cargo and cruise businesses, generate regional economic growth and create more jobs.
In short, our master plan enables the port to fulfill its purpose.
Public feedback
On Aug. 13, the port and its master plan consultants hosted a public meeting to gather comments on concepts for future growth based on market outlooks for the port’s three business sectors – cruise, cargo and commercial. According to market research and industry forecasts, the port has tremendous opportunities in all three areas.
About 200 people attended and provided a wide range of comments. This shows me that Galveston residents and our port partners care about the port’s future. Most of the input was positive and supportive of the port’s direction. People are proud of the port’s position as a global cruise leader and recognize its economic benefits. They also offered several suggestions.
Consultants identified six overarching sentiments:
What’s next?
Based on input from the public and the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees, consultants will draft a plan that includes capital projects, financials and a return on investment. Financials will be based on market demands and include future operating costs and net revenues.
In September, we expect consultants to present a draft plan that balances cruise, cargo and commercial development. We’ll share that draft plan on the port’s website. After presenting the finalized plan to City Council, the Wharves Board will adopt the plan and I’ll share updates in future columns.
Read more about the master plan and view consultant presentations on the port website.
By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO
