March 12, 2026
You may have read in the news recently about a group led by U.S. Congressman Randy Weber working to determine the best design for a new bridge connecting Galveston and Pelican islands.
On behalf of the Galveston Wharves, I want to thank Congressman Weber for his leadership on this important issue.
The existing bridge is narrow and weight-limited due to age. We see the opportunity to replace the existing 65-year-old, 2-lane lift bridge at 51st Street with infrastructure that will allow us to develop port acreage to its highest and best use and serve the region for decades.
While the Texas Department of Transportation continues design work for a high-span bridge estimated to cost more than $300 million, a study group was organized recently within Congressman Weber’s working group to explore other possibilities, including a land bridge with rail.
Pelican Island is a key area in the region for long-term industrial and cargo development. The port’s new 20-Year Strategic Master Plan envisions a new cargo handling yard and other heavy industrial activities on the port’s 357 acres, much of which is prime land on the deep-water Galveston Harbor.
Development has been and will continue to be constrained until we address the need for bridge and rail connectivity, as well as essential utility and transportation infrastructure on the island.
What’s at stake
The port’s master plan envisions developing the port’s prime 96 acres on the deepwater Galveston Harbor into a cargo yard. Currently undeveloped, the tract offers 2,560 linear feet on the harbor for berth space. This is the last major undeveloped tract owned by the port on either side of the harbor.
The plan also shows the potential to more than double the footprint of port-owned land used for ship repair and ship building. Now that Davie Defense has a lease on the 77-acre tract, we see tremendous opportunity for expansion.
The plan shows a total investment of $344 million over the next 20 years on port-owned land for the new pier, cargo yard and infrastructure. Funding could come from port funds, grants, private investment and public-private partnerships.
Learn more about port plans
We invite you to attend the port’s public meeting to learn more about potential development on Pelican Island and other port growth opportunities. The open house will be 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at the port’s Cruise Terminal 16, 1602 Harborside Drive. Free parking and refreshments will be provided.
You’ll have the opportunity to talk with the port’s subject matter experts about our cruise, cargo and commercial business sectors. Displays will showcase the port’s vision for future growth with long-range planning to benefit the community and maximize port assets.
Rodger Rees is Galveston Wharves port director and CEO.
