February 25, 2026
The Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees unanimously adopted the port’s updated 20-Year Strategic Master Plan on Feb. 11, setting a steady course for continued growth in our cruise, cargo and commercial business sectors.
By following the port’s first master plan, adopted in 2019, the port has achieved remarkable economic growth and maximized assets to meet market demand. In just six years, we have added two new cruise terminals, built an internal roadway, expanded cargo facilities and made progress with industrial development on Pelican Island.
As a result, we’re stronger financially and have operating reserves to improve decaying infrastructure. The port increased gross revenues by more than one-third from $59 million in 2019 to $87.3 million in 2025, while holding operating expenses steady at $40 million. We’re also a major revenue and jobs generator for the region.
In short, we’re working the plan and the plan is working.
After delivering major elements ahead of schedule, the board decided in 2025 to update the plan. They retained international consultants Bermello Ajamil and Partners (BA), authors of the original plan, to update the plan based on extensive research, market forecasts and public input.
We’ll seek input on the new plan at a public open house 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at Cruise Terminal 16. You can review a summary of plan highlights on the Strategic Master Plan web page. The complete document will be uploaded soon, once we receive the final copy from BA.
What’s in the plan
As with the 2019 plan, the strategy for port improvements is based on sound research, industry forecasts, port business goals, and community input. The strategic plan balances business sector, infrastructure, financial and community needs.
For cargo, the plan shows opportunities for the port to increase cargo from 3 million tons a year to more than 5 million tons over the next 5-10 years by doubling acreage in the West Port Cargo Complex, adding rail and making other improvements. New bridge and rail infrastructure would support future industrial growth opportunities on Pelican Island.
For cruise, the report shows that Galveston is well positioned for growth. BA forecasts Galveston’s cruise market capture to triple by 2045. To achieve that growth, the port would build additional cruise terminals, onsite parking garages, internal roadways and other supporting infrastructure, all driven by market demand.
I’ve been saving the best for last. BA’s vision for a new commercial area on the east end of the port includes a maritime park, the USS Texas attraction, a hotel, retail, and multi-family dwellings.
Our master plan has served us well. We’re looking forward to gathering public input on our 20-year roadmap as we continue our journey to develop our port to its full potential for the benefit of our community and the region. See you at the meeting on March 25!
By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO
