Port of Galveston receives $42.3 million for key projects

On September 28th, the Texas Transportation Commission approved $42.3 million for the Port of Galveston to use on various projects aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing safety. The funding will be used for a major cargo infrastructure project, as well as restoration efforts on a section of the port's interior roadway and an enclosed pedestrian walkway over Harborside Drive.

Port of Galveston's director and CEO, Rodger Rees, expressed his excitement about the funding, stating, "This is the single largest funding amount ever received by the port and reflects years of work by the port, TxDOT, and [TxDOT's Port Authority Advisory Committee]. These shovel-ready projects will expand our cargo business, improve traffic flow, and make it safer for pedestrians to access cruise operations and downtown Galveston."

The projects receiving funding are part of the Port of Galveston's 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. The funding will come from the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) Maritime Infrastructure Program, along with a $15.75 million match from Galveston Wharves.

Rees credited lawmakers in Austin for making the investment possible, saying, "This major economic investment is possible because the 88th Texas Legislature made history in their last regular session by allocating $640 million for infrastructure projects inside and outside port gates and for ship channel improvements at Texas ports."

The majority of the state funding, $36 million, will go towards improvements to the West Port Cargo Complex, with an additional $14.1 million provided by the port. The internal roadway reconstruction will receive $2.5 million from the state and $655,000 from the port in matching funds. Furthermore, $3.85 million will be allocated for the enclosed walkway over Harborside Drive at 25th Street.

The projects funded by the $42.3 million will not only enhance the Port of Galveston's cargo operations but also improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. This significant investment demonstrates the commitment to the growth and development of the port and its surrounding areas.