A Year of Growth and Gratitude: Looking Ahead to 2027

A Year of Growth and Gratitude: Looking Ahead to 2027

November 12, 2026

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO -- Each November, I look forward to writing my Thanksgiving column because it gives me an opportunity to reflect on the year, celebrate our accomplishments and recognize the people who helped us get here. 

We have much to be thankful for. This has been a year of significant progress for the Port of Galveston, highlighted by a major cargo expansion, steady cruise growth and exciting opportunities for the future.

We could not achieve these milestones without strong partnerships, a talented port staff, the support of our Wharves Board of Trustees, the Galveston community and local, state and national leaders.

A Major Investment in Cargo

One of our biggest accomplishments this year was completing the $106 million expansion of our West Port Cargo Complex. This historic investment added nearly 30 acres of cargo-handling space and a new berth to accommodate larger ships. 

While Galveston is widely recognized as a cruise port, cargo has been the foundation of our maritime economy for more than 200 years. This expansion positions us for a new era of cargo growth.

Strong and Steady Cruise Growth

Our cruise business continues to grow, with existing cruise partners expanding their Galveston operations and new cruise lines recognizing the value of our market. With four cruise terminals serving almost 2 million passengers a year, we're focused on maximizing our existing facilities while advancing plans for a proposed fifth cruise terminal at Pier 14.

Cruise generates more than 60 percent of port operating revenues. As a self-sustaining city entity with no taxing authority or city funding, we rely on operating revenues, bonds and grants to maintain and expand our assets. Cruise growth helps us reinvest in cargo, commercial development and infrastructure throughout the port.

Looking Ahead  

We have an exciting vision for Galveston's waterfront, as detailed in our 2026 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. The anticipated arrival of Battleship Texas at Pier 15 offers an opportunity to create a new commercial area that attracts visitors, supports Galveston businesses and spurs additional waterfront growth.

We're also supporting expansion plans to maximize port property on Pelican Island. Davie Defense / Gulf Copper expects to generate 1,800 jobs with its $750 million investment in shipbuilding operations. Power LNG proposes a small-scale LNG production and bunkering facility to provide cleaner marine fuels for ships calling at the port.

Join us for our annual open house 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Cruise Terminal 16 to learn more about all of our port projects.

Grateful for Partnerships and People

None of this happens without partnerships and community support. I'm grateful for our federal partners, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers and Customs and Border Protection; our state partners, including TxDOT; and our port partners, including ship pilots, stevedores, tenants, cruise lines and the International Longshoremen's Association.

I'm equally thankful for Galveston residents, city and county leaders, our business community and tourism partners who recognize the port's importance to the island's economic future.

Last but certainly not least, I'm grateful for our Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees and port employees. Their dedication, professionalism and hard work make our success possible every day.

From my family to yours, wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful holiday season!