Galveston Wharves Launches $90 Million Expansion to Boost Cargo Capabilities

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  • Galveston Wharves begins a $90 million infrastructure project to enhance the West Port Cargo Complex.
  • The expansion includes adding 30 acres of cargo space and a new 1,424-foot berth, with completion expected in 2026.
  • This investment is complemented by a $151 million cruise terminal project, totaling nearly $250 million in port improvements.

The Galveston Wharves has initiated a significant $90 million expansion project for its West Port Cargo Complex, with the groundbreaking ceremony held on July 24. This phased construction work, scheduled for completion in 2026, aims to boost the port’s cargo-handling capabilities and accommodate growing business needs, reports Ajot.

Cargo improvements

The expansion is funded through port revenues and a substantial $36 million state grant. Key elements of the project include the addition of 30 acres of cargo-handling area and the construction of a new 1,424-foot berth. The project will also involve enclosing two outdated slips and demolishing a decommissioned grain elevator to create more space for cargo operations, particularly for roll-on/roll-off vehicles and wind turbine components.

Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves’ port director and CEO, highlighted the significance of this investment, noting, “This is the first time in more than 50 years that the port has made this kind of investment in our cargo infrastructure. We’re able to fund this work thanks to the tremendous growth of our cruise business and the historic state funding allocated for port infrastructure improvements.”

Rees acknowledged the contributions of various port partners, including the Texas Department of Transportation Maritime Division, the International Longshoremen’s Union, state and federal officials, and the port’s cargo tenants.

Mayor Craig Brown expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a great day for Galveston. Not only are we kicking off more than $90 million in cargo infrastructure improvements, but the port is also beginning construction this summer on its fourth cruise terminal, a $151 million investment in the port’s future. That’s a total of almost $250 million. This is a phenomenal milestone for our 199-year-old port and for the city of Galveston.”

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Source: Ajot