2023 GEDP Developer Profile

2023-2024 Chairman GEDP

“By bridging the gap between education and industry needs, Galveston is ensuring that its workforce remains competitive and adaptable in an evolving economy”

WELCOME

BRIDGING OPPORTUNITIES

We are pleased to present you with the 2023 GEDP Developer Profile.

For over 180 years, Galveston has been on a visionary journey to bridge opportunities for economic development, transforming this coastal city into a thriving hub of commerce and innovation. Current key economic area drivers include the maritime industry, hospitality and tourism, and education. Galveston is a crucial economic connection along the Gulf Coast for Texas and the nation.

Through strategic investments in port infrastructure and logistics, the Port of Galveston and the City of Galveston have fostered greater trade connectivity, attracted major shipping companies, realized significant gains as a partner with the cruise ship industry, and stimulated local economic growth. This expansion has not only created jobs within the port itself but has also catalyzed related industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing, making Galveston a crucial gateway for the region’s import and export activities.

Additionally, the City has harnessed the power of its rich cultural heritage and natural assets to stimulate economic opportunities. Galveston’s commitment to environmental sustainability has positioned it as a leader in the renewable energy sector. Another vital aspect of Galveston’s economic development strategy is its emphasis on education and workforce development. The City has partnered with educational institutions to establish programs that prepare its residents for job opportunities emerging from the City’s growth. By bridging the gap between education and industry needs, Galveston is ensuring that its workforce remains competitive and adaptable in an evolving economy. This commitment to education and skill-building not only secures the future prosperity of the city, but also makes it an attractive destination for businesses seeking a well-prepared workforce.

Galveston stands as a testament to how strategic planning and a focus on diverse economic sectors can bridge opportunities for sustained and vibrant economic development. We hope you enjoy this profile and continue to help bridge Galveston into the future.

Sincerely

Dr. Myles Shelton

President of Galveston College

2023-2024 Chairman of the GEDP

Dr. Myles Shelton received his Bachelor’s degree in History, Master’s in Economics and Doctorate in Educational Administration from Baylor University. He is the president of Galveston College and the Chairman of the GEDP. He also holds membership in several professional organizations, as well as a member of economic development corporations, chambers of commerce, Boy Scouts of America and the Lions Club. Dr. Shelton and his wife, Gail live in Galveston.

GEDP OVERVIEW SERVICES OF THE GEDP

BECOME A MEMBER

Membership is open to anyone interested in becoming part of a dynamic and ever-changing economic base of Galveston.

The GEDP was established in 1999 and has established a proven track record in developing and facilitating ideas, projects and initiatives beneficial to the greater Galveston region.

Membership benefits include the ability to network and engage in business development opportunities across Galveston Island and beyond.

Each year the GEDP hosts the Economic Development Summit to allow community leaders, business owners, planners and members the chance to hear from a series of leaders discussing the state of our city and county.

As the leading economic force of Galveston, the GEDP has developed four working task forces. These task forces are led by volunteer chairs and members of the GEDP who give their time, talents and expertise to work for a better and stronger Galveston.

Plans for 2024 include additional benefits and more educational opportunities for our members. Our “Member Blenders” offer a monthly gathering to learn about our members and support each other.

Go online or call our office for membership information.

www.GEDP.org | 409-770-0216

CORE VALUES ESTABLISHED THE DAY GEDP WAS ORGANIZED ARE THE SAME TODAY:

• To expand employment opportunities and tax base

• Task Force Continuation

• Economic impact of supported activities

• Comprehensive Economic Database

• One-Stop Shop Delivery System

• Proactive Business Climate

• Realistic Incentive Base for Stimulating Private Sector Investment

• Middle-income and Housing Expansion

• Business Continuity and Disaster Preparedness initiatives

• Qualified Labor Pool for Workforce

• Strategic Alliances with Local and Regional Entities

LEVERAGING ASSETS, RESOURCES AND LEADERSHIP

The GEDP has established a professional track record of collaboration and leveraging people, projects and opportunities for more than 20 years. The strength of the GEDP is the direct result of the caliber of members and the leadership of the Executive Committee who volunteer in the effort of growing Galveston. These attributes have resulted in recognition over the years from both the Texas Economic Development Council and the International Economic Development Council.

TASK FORCES - ESSENTIAL TO WORK OF GEDP

GEDP Members maximize participation through involvement with Task Forces, Sub-Committees, Webinars, Special Events and access to regional data, information and analysis. Working with our members and community partners, we help build stronger connections, better resources and innovative opportunities for Galveston’s businesses and community. Any GEDP member may join a task force.

Industry & Transportation: Chair: Myles Shelton-Galveston College

Vice Chair: Keith Palmer - Titan Technologies

Member Engagement: Chair: Billy Coltzer - Zero Six Consulting

Vice Chair: Mark Conrad - Express Employment

Emerging Technology: Chair: Darrell Carney - Chrysalis BioTherapeutics

Vice Chair: Marie Robb-Coastal Solutions, Inc.

Business Continuity/Resilience: Chair: Gale Burkett - GB Tech

Vice Chair: Garry Kaufman-Galveston Insurance Assoc.

Since 1999, through the public private membership base of the GEDP, assistance has been provided including demographic and socioeconomic information, utilization of a comprehensive Geographic Information System (GIS) for project development activities, maintenance of an information clearinghouse, and economic climate assessments, and made available to those seeking to make Galveston a better place.

Priority areas of investment include those projects capable of expanding or enhancing the core industries of the Galveston economic base: Maritime, Tourism, Education, Healthcare & Emerging Technologies.

Maximizing Galveston’s human, natural and financial resources, the GEDP remains committed to facilitating quality projects that work to expand Galveston’s employment and tax bases. Galveston is an island of opportunity and the GEDP looks forward to working with you on future projects.

bridging opportunities

GEDP

STRATEGIC AREAS OF CONCENTRATION

MARITIME

Port masterplan

Pelican Island Bridge

Pelican Island land development

Transportation - Mobility

Navigation districts

Green Marine certification

Blue Economy

TOURISM

Cruise ship development

Economic climate

Beach nourishment

Recreation/Sports tourism

Art tourism

Transportation

Workforce / Housing

EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE

School Bond Implementation

Growth in Students,

Facilities and Programs

Diversity and Workforce Development

College town amenities and programs

Student Housing

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY

Growth in capital formation -Space - Talent

The UTMB Life Science Incubator

Accelerator expansion

Regional Resource Providers

Professional Service Providers

Local, regional and state-wide collaborations

RESILIENCE - DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

RECOVERY- BUSINESS CONTINUITY

Texas Coastal Study

Business Recovery, tools and resources

Resource Providers

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOLS

Economic Development Incentives

Opportunity Zones

Local, State and Federal Partners

Site Selection Tool

PLANNING FORWARD

Strategic planning and implementation in all sectors

Vision Galveston

KEITH GRAY Executive Director GEDP

Galveston is experiencing a surge of investments, bridging opportunities for partnerships across the island and beyond.

WELCOME TO THE 2023 DEVELOPER PROFILE MAGAZINE

The Galveston Economic Development Partnership (GEDP) is pleased to present this 2023 Developer Profile for your review. This profile highlights the major projects, investments and economic activities emerging in Galveston.

As you review this issue, we encourage you to take stock of the positive advancements in Galveston. Investments across the island include a bond for a new high school along with improvements to the stadium and other academic structures, opening of the Royal Caribbean Cruise terminal, the recently opened UTMB Life Science Incubator Space at the Customs House along with other advancements you will learn about within these pages.

Galveston island is currently positioned to capitalize on economic opportunities associated with maritime developments, education and health care needs and hospitality and tourism trends. In addition to these primary drivers, the small business, banking, real estate and professional services sectors are contributing to Galveston’s economic health. Galveston is experiencing a surge of investments, bridging opportunities for partnerships across the island.

It is an exciting time to be in our region and experience these advancements. With the amenities of our area and unique lifestyle choices, we know Galveston is positioned for growth and a bright future.

The GEDP is honored to share these pages of information with you in the hope that you gain a sense of the optimism and opportunities that characterize our great island.

Reach out to the GEDP to learn more about Galveston, its resources and members. We thank you for your continued support and investment in Galveston.

The work of the GEDP is only possible because of the support of our Members, Executive Committee,Task Force Chairs, Task Force Members, Allies and Staff.

Mihovil Photography

SECRETARY

John Kelso J.W. Kelso Company, Inc.

VICE CHAIRMAN

Bill Coltzer Zero/Six Consulting, LLC

TREASURER

William Rider Rider and Wilson

2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Bert Bagley

The Permanent Endowment Fund

Howie Bentley

Classic Auto Group Galveston

Gale Burkett

GB Tech

Darrell Carney Chrysalis BioTherapeutics

Jason Farmer Farmers Alloy Fabricating

Leonard Hale

Gulf Copper

Jessica Sanford

CenterPoint Energy

Harris L. “Shrub” Kempner **

Kempner Capital Mgmt.

Jayson Levy** Industrial Material Corp.

Keith Palmer

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR

Keith Bassett Bassett Family Partnership

CHAIRMAN

Myles Shelton Galveston College

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Maureen Patton

The Grand 1894 Opera House

Vic Pierson**

Moody National Bank

Fred Raschke** Mills Shirley, LLP

Jimmy Rasmussen** HomeTown Bank

Marie Robb Coastal Solutions, Inc

Todd Scott Great Scott Enterprises

Johnny Smecca** Galveston Restaurant Group

Todd Sullivan

Sullivan Brothers Family of Companies

Tim Walsh

American National Insurance Company

Leonard Woolsey

Craig Brown Mayor, City of Galveston

Steve Conner Chair-Galv. Regional Chamber of Commerce

Kimberly Danesi CEO, Park Board of Trustees

Michael Fossum COO, Texas A&M University at Galveston

Matthew Neighbors Superintendent, GISD

Brian Maxwell City Manager, City of Galveston

Jochen Reiser

UTMB President

Rodger Rees

Port Director

Gina Spagnola President of Chamber

V. J. Tramonte**

Titan Technologies

The Daily News

Joe Tramonte Realty

** Past Chair

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

GEDP INTERACTIVE SITE SELECTION TOOL ACCESS

Easily search for your perfect location in Galveston using our new interactive site selection tool at GEDP.org.

• Supports customized and standard searches by location, numerous property details, incentives, zoning, etc.

• Includes side-by-side comparisons of commercial properties

• 3-D Rendering feature allows drawing of various building plans on a chosen site for your project.

Access to critical demographic and community analysis tools, business reports and workforce data.

Explore data and statistics including:

• Available labor force

• Economic indicators

• Infrastructure

• Businesses

• Industries

• Community profile

• And more

Produce presentation ready charts and info-graphics.

GEDP OVERVIEW

Years ago information for economic development consisted of volumes of data ranging from available properties to utilities, incentives, workforce data, socioeconomic information, economic climate and other attributes. Today, methods are more sophisticated for site selection, expansion and diversification through software programs and internet access to resource agencies from the local, regional, state, and federal levels.

The GEDP maintains a wide array of information compiled for these purposes, creating a one-stop-shop for data relating to Galveston and surrounding areas. The information utilized is not only for business development purposes, but also for community development initiatives throughout our City.

Data by itself is only one element in decision making. With quality information and assessments merged, value is added, creating a compelling representation of how the Galveston economy ebbs and flows over time.

Some of these data points include:

• Population: both daytime and other

• Quantity of Students in schools

• Number of residents full time

• Number of commuters

• Number of Visitors

• Second Homeowners

• Employment numbers

• Cost of Living index vs US

• Number of local workers vs commuters

• Where workers are commuting from

• Hotel Occupancy Tax collected

• Number of Emerging Tech companies

There are a vast number of data points to help with site selection or other informational gathering needs. The GEDP, in partnership with stakeholders, are working to expand Galveston’s employment and tax bases.

The GEDP is your Information Clearinghouse helping you evaluate investment possibilities including economic incentives; site selection; project development and all the information you will need to start or grow your business.

At the GEDP, we assist prospective business and individuals with the tools necessary to help you navigate a path forward.

Go online to www.gedp.org to learn more.

THE HONORABLE

DR. CRAIG BROWN Mayor of

Galveston

Through an enhanced partnership with the Port and Park Board the City strives to successfully bridge development opportunities and the quality of life for our citizens, businesses and visitors on Galveston Island.

WELCOME TO GALVESTON

An island community rich in history and opportunity, Galveston is the ideal place to not only visit, but to live, work, and raise a family.

Galveston is looking better than ever - and through an enhanced partnership with the Port of Galveston and Park Board - the City strives to successfully bridge development opportunities and the quality of life for our citizens, businesses and visitors on Galveston Island.

The City continues to prioritize investment in our critical infrastructure such as streets, water, drainage and support vital transportation projects such as the replacement of the Pelican Island Bridge and the addition of the I-45/61st St flyover.

Galveston’s major economic drivers all continue to experience growth, further strengthening our position within the state’s economy and the greater Gulf Coast.

Our expanding dynamic Port is poised for record growth and reinvestment in its infrastructure. Our robust Tourism Industry is strategic in promoting the island for the betterment of our entire community. Major investments by our higher learning institutions and our local school district are bridging educational opportunities to support the needs of Galveston’s current and future workforce.

As the Mayor of Galveston, I have been grateful to be a part of the growth of our City and the positive changes that have added to the quality of life for all of us who are fortunate enough to call Galveston home.

MEET YOUR COUNCIL MEMBERS

The City Council derives its authority from our city charter and is the legislative branch of our local government. The responsibilities of the City Council and Mayor are to establish policy through the adoption of ordinances. The six council positions are elected by district to two-year terms and the mayor is elected at-large to a two-year term. Council positions are eligible to serve up to three two-year terms.

Sharon B. Lewis

District 1

District 4

David Finklea District 2

David Collins

John Paul Listowski

District 6 District 3 District 5

Mike “Mikey” Bouvier

Marie Robb

galveston economic climate

GALVESTON, TEXAS

Founded in 1839, Galveston offers an abundance of resources that culminate into a community rich in history, diversified with significant public and private sector assets and an open portal for sustainable growth and development opportunities.

Situated on the Gulf Coast of Texas, Galveston Island boasts 32 miles of beaches, a historic downtown, busy cruise terminal and several attractions. The deep water port is one of the finest on the Gulf Coast. Galveston is home to one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S. and one of the first medical schools and comprehensive medical centers in the state.

The economic base is comprised primarily through the maritime, tourism, education, health care and emerging technology sectors. The port has a deep-water channel beaming with potential, an ever expanding coastal tourism destination and the home of the world-class education, research and heath care advances. Insurance, finance, commercial and institutional sectors also play a significant role within the overall Galveston economy.

These assets coupled with a City significantly investing in infrastructure, transportation, parks and neighborhoods create a unique location for business development, and exceptional quality of life.

Living in Galveston is a highly favored lifestyle alternative to the urban and suburban communities of the island. Most of all, Galveston is the perfect location to live, work and invest for the future.

HOUSING AND INCOME

DIVERSE POPULATION

Galveston boasts a large and diverse daily population. Most days, it more than DOUBLES due to its commuting workforce, college students, second homeowners and healthy tourism population.

EDUCATION

Unlike many cities its size, Galveston has the distinct advantage of serving as home to three higher level educational institutions.

• Galveston College

-Enrollment 2,300 each semester

• Texas A&M University at Galveston

-Enrollment 2,200 each semester

• University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

-Enrollment 3,808 each semester

galveston economic climate

EMPLOYMENT CENTER OF GALVESTON COUNTY

Each of Galveston’s industry sectors have established excellence within their respective areas. Investor confidence in Galveston is supported through a proactive City that is investing in infrastructure, neighborhoods and parks. Educational institutions are growing (programs, student populations and facilities) and the critical mass for greater opportunities in emerging technology sector exist locally and regionally for life sciences, maritime, petrochemical, aerospace/ aviation, sports tourism, resilience, environmental and more.

The maritime industry is positioned geographically, logistically and strategically for future expansion and diversification.

LARGEST INDUSTRY SECTORS IN GALVESTON

• Education Services 13,744 workers

• Accommodation / Food Services 7,161 workers

• Transportation /Warehousing 3,452 workers

Occupation groups in Galveston with the highest average wages per worker are:

• Legal ($136,800),

• Management ($117,500),

• Architecture & Engineering ($97,800)

The occupation groups with the highest LQs in Galveston are:

The Galveston public school district offers a tremendous amount of instructional opportunities at its campuses with magnet programs dotting the district and numerous certification programs that allow students secure living wage jobs before or after graduation. Middle schools offer a variety of Pre-Advanced Placement credits, and Ball High has access to free or discounted dual credit hour from Galveston College or a multitude of Advance Placement classes. In addition, GISD offers a full slate of fine arts, athletic teams and programs.

Galveston ISD serves about 17,000 students on Galveston Island and Bolivar Peninsula.

Tourism related investments in beach nourishment, cruise terminal expansions, and a robust private sector in the restaurant, hospitality, convention and tourism attraction markets continue leading the region.

Combining this with our location in close proximity to the 4th largest City in the Country - Houston, the Gulf of Mexico, NASAJohnson Space Center and so much more – Galveston is poised to continue moving forward.

THE FACTS

• Approximately 44,000 jobs are on the island (Jobs EQ 2023 Q2)

• Approximately 94% of Galveston businesses have fewer than 50 employees

• Strongest forecast for jobs is expected for Accommodations and Food Service (+86), Educational Services (+174), Health Care and Social Assistance (+64), Transportation and warehousing (+44)

GALVESTON SALES TAX REVENUES

Source: State Comptroller

* Includes combined City and IDC Type B Sales Tax Allocations

Source Job:EQ2023

• Education and Instruction and Library Occupations (LQ = 2.91)

• Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations (LQ = 1.62)

• Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations (LQ = 1.41)

High location quotients (LQs) refer to occupation groups in which an area has high concentration of employment compared to the national average.

(Source: JobsEQ 2023)

GALVESTON’S TAX BASE

COMPREHENSIVE PLANS

City of Galveston

Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

FY2024-FY2028 Capital Improvement Plan

galvestontx.gov/819/Financial-Transparency

Scholes International Airport: Master Plan

galvestonairport.com/aiport-master-plan

Port of Galveston: Strategic Master Plan, 2019 portofgalveston.com/221/Strategic-Master-Plan

Galveston Island Park Board

Beach Parks & Seawolf Park Master Plans

www.galvestonparkboard.org/208/Maps-Plans

Galveston Independent School District (GISD)

Galveston ISD Strategic Plan: 2017-2022

www.gisd.org/explore-gisd/about-us/gisd-strategic-plan

Galveston College: 2023-2027 Strategic Plan

gc.edu/about-gc/administration/strategic-plan.php

University of Texas Medical Branch

The UTMB Strategic Plan – Institutional Vision 2023-2027

utmb.edu/strategic-plan

Texas A&M University at Galveston

Texas A&M Galveston: 2020-2025 Strategic Plan

www.tamug.edu/AcademicAffairs/StrategicPlan.html

City of Galveston Cultural Arts Commission

Galveston Arts and Culture Master Plan, November 2022

www.galvestontx.gov/1086/Cultural-Arts-Commission

Vision Galveston: Our Plan

Our City, Our Future - October 2019

visiongalveston.com

Houston-Galveston Area Council

Gulf Coast Economic Development District (GCEDD) –Regional Plan for Economic Resilience, 2018

h-gac.com/gulf-coast-economic-development-district/ economic-resilience

Texas General Land Office (GLO)

Coastal Resiliency Master Plan – March 2023

www.glo.texas.gov/coast/coastal-management/coastal-resiliency/resources/index.html

Source: Galveston Central Appraisal District, 2023 tax year

Source: City of Galveston Planning and Permitting Dept, 2023

galveston development process

Building on an island along the Texas Gulf Coast, that also boasts one of the largest inventories of historic architecture can involve a few extra requirements when contemplating a commercial or residential project.

The City of Galveston offers Pre-Development Meetings to review proposed projects and provide input on constraints or special requirements related to the project.

PLANNING PHASE

STEP 1 (optional step, but recommended)

Pre-Development Meeting:

 Meet with Staff to review proposed project;

 Staff will provide you with opportunities, constraints and/or potential issues

GOAL - Expose and mitigate any potential hurdles early and/or determine feasibility of project

NEED REZONING OR SPECIAL USE PERMIT?

If NO, proceed to STEP 7

STEP 2

MASTER PLANS/PLATTING

If property is part of a phased development, master plans need to be submitted to City. No further action can be conducted until all tracts are preliminarily platted.

Planning Commission must review all replats, preliminary plats and final plats prior to permitting & development.

STEP 3

SUBMIT PLANNING APPLICATION in ePORTAL

 Developer creates an account

 Developer submits application electronically

 Staff assigns Record # and Type

 Staff assigns to appropriate staff and/or depts for review

STEP 5

PRESENT AT PUBLIC MEETING Site Plans, Zoning Change and Planned Unit Developments may require action from:

 Planning Commission

 Landmark Commission

 Zoning Board of Adjustments

 Building Board of Adjustments

 City Council

STEP 4

PLANNING REVIEW

Staff will review and/or meet to discuss their comments and/or need for revisions and will schedule projects for board review if applicable.

INFRASTRUCTURE IN PLACE?

IF CURRENT INFRASTRUCTURE IS INADEQUATE OR DOES NOT EXIST, A SEPARATE MEETING WITH PUBLIC UTILITIES AND ENGINEERING MIGHT BE NECESSARY

galveston development process

The City uses an electronic permitting portal in order to streamline and expedite the permitting process, allowing all departments to review simultaneously with electronic notification back to the developer when review is complete or additional information is required.

The Development Ombudsman is assigned to commercial and large residential developments to assist developers with moving swiftly and smoothly through the planning and permitting process.

STEP 6

PERMITTING & CONSTRUCTION PHASE

SUBMIT PERMIT APPLICATION in ePORTAL

 Developer creates an account

 Developer submits application electronically

 Staff assigns Record # and Type

 Staff assigns to appropriate staff and/or depts for review

STEP 7

PERMIT REVIEW by DEPTS

 Planning

 City Engineer

STEP 11

RECEIVE CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY

After construction project is completed per approved plans

 Building

 Mechanical

 Electrical

 Plumbing

 Floodplain

 Fire

 Building Official

STEP 10

SCHEDULE BUILDING INSPECTIONS

Applicable to each phase of construction

REVISIONS, IF NECESSARY

IF ADDITIONAL INFO OR REVISIONS ARE NECESSARY, DEVELOPER IS NOTIFIED TO MAKE CORRECTIONS AND RESUBMIT – REPEAT STEP 7 UNTIL ALL ISSUES HAVE BEEN CORRECTED

STEP 8

IF NEEDED, PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS CONSTRUCTED & INSPECTED

 Engineering

 Utilities

PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING

LARGE DEVELOPMENTS OR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS REQUIRE A PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING WITH ENGINEERING AND/OR PUBLIC UTILITIES PRIOR TO COMMENCING CONSTRUCTION

 Fire

STEP 9

RECEIVE BUILDING PERMIT

CITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

In its efforts to ensure resiliency for current and future investments in our community, the City of Galveston has a number of major capital improvement projects taking place or being designed for the near future. Projects span all across the island and are primarily focused on critical infrastructure such as drainage, sanitary sewer, water and street paving and repair projects. There are also a number of upgrades and improvement projects to city facilities and parks to better serve the community and improve the quality of life for its residents. These projects are primarily funded through grants, bonds, enterprise funds or revenues from special sources, such as the Industrial Development Corporation’s Type B sales tax allocation.

South Shore Storm water Pump Station

This $57 million project for Design and Construction of a pump station to service the neighborhoods near English Bayou, from approximately 61st St to 57th St and South Shore Drive to Seawall Blvd. Since this pump station will be located within the Bayou Shore neighborhood, design efforts have focused on its need to aesthetically blend in with the residential environment in addition to the functionality of the pump station and off-site storm drain conveyance and collection system.

Seawall Illuminated Bollard Project

The City is currently in phase III of the Seawall Lighting project. This project is utilizing Seawall parking revenues to enhance the island’s beachfront boulevard by installing the decorative and functional bollard lighting to improve the Seawall’s appearance, walkability and safety. The lighting will eventually span from 6th Street to 61st Street.

14th Street Storm water Pump Station

This $43 million project has now completed 100% of its Design phase and is awaiting FEMA funding in order to begin construction. The project includes the construction of new storm drain systems in the general vicinity of the area bounded by 13th Street and 17th Street; and Seawall Blvd. and the Ship Channel. The improvement area also includes storm drain connections to the side streets, leads and inlets at appropriate spacing, and restoration of pavement. In addition, the project improvement area includes an outfall pump station on the Galveston Ship Channel end of the proposed storm drain system.

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AREAS

The city has been moving forward within a series of strategic “corridors” emphasizing sense of place, landscaping and street-scaping improvements for the benefit of the corridors. Development of additional planning for strategic investment areas combined with the recent success of corridor redevelopment by the city create an opportunity for future development.

The following locations are generally considered strategic investment areas that possess the potential of even greater development/redevelopment for Galveston overall.

• Broadway Corridor

• North Broadway/West Market Street

• Airport / Moody Gardens

• Gateway District

• UTMB / Strand Corridor

• Port of Galveston / Pelican Island

• Seawall Boulevard/East Beach

• West Market Street

• West End

• Harborside Drive (Port Industrial)

• 61st Street Corridor

• Central Business District (Strand, Postoffice, etc.)

CITY TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS

OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT IN BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY

MAJOR INDUSTRIES:

• Healthcare, Emerging Technology & Education

• Maritime and Support Services for Offshore Oil and gas

• Tourism and Hospitality

LOCATION:

• 30 Minutes South of Houston

• On the Gulf of Mexico, or Texas Gulf Coast

• 35 Minutes from Hobby Airport

OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVESTMENT:

• Scholes International Airport

• Pelican Island

• Port of Galveston

• Strategic Investment Areas

• Cargo warehousing and distribution

MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION:

• Trucking- I-45 to Houston and beyond

• Rail-2 Class 1 Rail Lines

• Scholes International Airport

• Galveston Ship Channel

OPPORTUNITY ZONE-GALVESTON

According to the IRS, an Opportunity Zone is an economically distressed community where new investments, under certain conditions, may be eligible for preferential tax treatment. Localities qualify as opportunity zones if they have been nominated for that designation by the state and that nomination has been certified by the Secretary of the U.S. Treasury via his delegation of authority to the Internal Revenue Service.

Opportunity zones were added to the Tax code by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017. These are economic development tools - that is, they are designed to spur economic development and job creation in distressed communities by providing tax benefits to investors. These investors can defer tax on any prior gains invested in

a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF) until the earlier of the date on which the investment in a QOF is sold or exchanged or December 31, 2026. If the QOF investment is held for longer than five years, there is a 10% exclusion of the deferred gain. If held for more than 7 years, the 10% becomes 15%. Second, if the investor holds the investment in the Opportunity Fund for at least ten years, the investor is eligible for an increase in basis of the QOF investment equal to its fair market value on the date that the QOF investment is sold or exchanged.

Galveston’s Opportunity Zone stretches along Seawall Blvd from about 53rd Street all the way down to the east end of the island and covers much of the eastern tip of the island.

I-45 from Causeway to 61st St. - Road Widening and Flyover Projects

These two TXDOT transportation projects are estimated at $114,000,000 and $8,000,000 and is set to reconstruct the I-45 overpasses and construct intersection improvements, including U-turn and turning lanes at Harborside Drive, 71st St and 61st St. widening the roadway from 6 to 8 main lanes and both 2 lane frontage roads. It will also construct a one-lane direct connector from northbound 61st to northbound I-45.

TxDOT -I45 Galveston Improvement Projects

CITY TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS

Seawolf Parkway at Pelican Island Channel Bridge Replacement

This long-awaited project will replace the existing lift bridge with a new fixed-span bridge in a slightly new location, connecting Galveston Island and Pelican Island. The project will provide a safe and reliable crossing of the Pelican Island Channel for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, ensure uninterrupted access for evacuation and for emergency services to Pelican Island.

The existing bridge is a 2-lane load restricted lift bridge with 3-foot-wide shoulders and does not have any bicycle or pedestrian

accommodations. The new bridge will provide for two 12-foot-wide lanes (one in each direction) and 13-foot-wide outside shoulders. It will also contain a 10-foot-wide shared use path for bicyclists and pedestrians on the east side of the bridge with a 3-foot buffer between the shoulder and the shared use path.

At this time, the proposed cost estimate is $194 million with construction estimated to begin in the Summer of 2025.

Sandhill Crane Soccer Complex

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (IDC) project

The City has finished up construction plans for the $5.5 million renovation of the Sandhill Crane Soccer Complex and will begin construction by the end of the year.

The project includes extensive renovation and realignment of the fields to include grading, drainage and irrigation. Other improvements include lighting, seating and permanent restroom facilities.

This project is being funded primarily with the Industrial Development Corporation’s Type B sales tax revenues, with a portion of the project being funded by hotel occupancy tax revenues.

VARIETY OF HOUSING CHOICES

Galveston will never be described as a “cookie cutter” community. Whether your idea of the perfect home is a Coastal themed abode along a waterfront canal, a 19th-century Victorian cottage, an open concept residential Loft in the heart of historic Downtown, or a more traditional dwelling - Galveston has a neighborhood for you.

HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOODS

Galveston’s historic neighborhoods provide homeowners many unique opportunities. Galveston has one of the country’s most important concentrations of late 19th and early 20th century architecture, with hundreds of historic structures on the National Register of Historic Places. From stately mansions to quaint cottages to the conversions of downtown buildings to residential lofts, Galveston’s older neighborhoods offer a wide range of housing options.

COASTAL AND WATERFRONT LIVING

Galveston has many neighborhoods with coastal inspired homes along the beaches or on canal. Islanders have the option to enjoy the beautiful sunrise over the beach from the back porch with their morning cup of coffee or ending a hard day’s work with a sunset cruise by hopping in the boat outside their back yard.

REAL ESTATE TRENDS

Galveston’s economic renaissance still continues with investments being made comprehensively across Galveston Island. While residential sales and transactions have grown this year, renovations have also been on an upward trend. Galveston maintains an excellent quality of life and quality of place as a coastal destination, with a small town atmosphere and an abundance of natural resources.

REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY

While investments in Galveston are ongoing and development strong, the current housing market is growing as well.

The highest percentage of transactions occurred on the West End of Galveston, while other high activity levels were reached within many different neighborhoods throughout the island. The median selling price of all residential sales INCREASED +19%, from $395,200 in 2021 to $470,000 in 2022 the average number of days a property was on the market DECREASED -3% from 34 days to 33 days.

See the GEDP Membership list (pages 98-99) for a local Realtor who can help you with housing and investment choices.

REAL ESTATE OVERVIEW

GALVESTON ISLAND RESIDENTIAL MARKET RECAP 2022 vs 2021

Source: Houston Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service, January 1–December 31, 2021 & 2022. Data deemed reliable, but not guaranteed by MLS or Broker. Source: Data provided by Sand n Sea Properties

WHO IS THIS INFORMATION FOR AND HOW IS IT USED?

• Property owners can use the information to decide if and when to sell or rent out their homes. In addition, it’s helpful to know the real estate trends for both their market area and Galveston Island as a whole.

• Prospective buyers can research affordability of different areas, view differences in property values across the island, and determine timelines and expectations (e.g., how long homes are sitting on the market).

• Business owners can get a handle on how their area may be growing and changing, and whether that trend is shifting over time. More specifically, the Galveston Economic Development Partnership cites these statistics to businesses considering a move to Galveston.

• Real estate agents who show homes on Galveston Island find this comprehensive real estate tool is valuable as well and eagerly await the report’s annual release.

• Elected officials monitor these real estate market stats to understand Galveston’s recovery since Hurricane Ike and other disasters.

CRUISING FROM GALVESTON

GROWING OUR CARGO BUSINESS

WEST PORT CARGO COMPLEX ESSENTIAL FOR GROWTH

The West Port Cargo Complex is a $50 million improvement and expansion project that will increase the Port of Galveston cargo area, improve infrastruc ture, and position the Galveston Wharves and the Texas economy for growth. Identified as an essential project in the Galveston Wharves 20-Year Strategic Master Plan, this project is vital for our port and the state. The port’s goal is to complete the improvements below by 2025.

GALVESTON SHIP CHANNEL WEST PORT CARGO COMPLEX

HOUSTON (BAY AREA), TX

(409) 935-9990

211 E Parkwood Ave Ste 210

Friendswood, TX 77546

BRAZORIA COUNTY, TX

(979) 487-5999

122 West Way Ste. 306

Lake Jackson, TX 77566

OTHER LOCATIONS

Express Employment Professionals is now working with heavy industrial businesses in the Gulf South to fill positions with qualified candidates. Contact us at any of our listed locations so we can discuss your Heavy Industrial and skilled trade needs!

Welders

Boilermakers

Iron Workers

Dock Workers

Pipefitters

Heavy Equipment Operators

Sandblasters/Hydroblasters

Instrumentation Technicians

Maintenance Technicians

Fire Watch/Hole Watch

Painters

Electricians And More!

GALVESTON PARK BOARD ECONOMIC IMPACT TO GALVESTON

Galveston Island saw visits and visitor spending reach record levels as effects from the pandemic were shaken off in 2022. Visitor volumes increased 25% year -on-year to reach 8.1 million in 2022. Visitor spending totaled $1.2 billion after rising $243 million above prior year spending.

Visitor spending expanded 27% in 2022, to reach $1.2 billion.

Of the $1.2 billion spent on Galveston Island in 2022 by visitors, lodging contributed $374 million in sales – representing 32% of total visitor spending. Food and beverages accounted for 24% of total visitor spending. Visitors spent 18% of their total budget on recreation, 17% on retail, and 7% on transportation. Cruise spending at the port of $22 million represented 2% of total visitor spending.

Reduced health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and increased capacity at venues attracted more visitors to Galveston Island.

Resultantly, visitor volume increased 1.6 million to a record of 8.1 million.

Cruise visitors to Galveston Island reached 96% of 2019 levels in the first full cruise calendar since the pandemic. Robust day growth was aided by the island’s close proximity to dense urban areas, while overnight visitor growth benefitted from continued strength in vacation rental stays.

LODGING REVENUE AND IMPACTS

TOURISM ECONOMICS

Visitor spending in 2022 increased in all the major categories, led by food & beverages. Port spending recaptured a significant share of total visitor spending, rising from 0.7% of overall visitor budget to 1.9% in 2022.

The majority of visitor spending was attributed to overnight visitors who spent $749 million (excluding port revenues and second home spending).

DIRECT IMPACTS

Employment supported by visitor activity increased 10.9% in 2002, rebounding to 9,793 jobs. Due to an increase of nearly 1,000 jobs, employment directly supported by visitors was approximately 900 jobs above pre-pandemic levels.

DIRECT EMPLOYMENT

Direct visitor economy employment supported significant shares of several industries in 2022 - all of lodging, 87% of recreation, 67% of food and beverage employment and 31% of retail employment.

prior year. Spending on cruise services at the port more than doubled due to a full cruise calendar but was the only spending category that did not fully recover, registering 93% of pre-pandemic levels.

TOURISM OVERVIEW

The total number of visitors to Galveston Island in 2022 was 8.1 million, with each visitor spending an average of $142 per person on their trip, compared to $120 in 2019.

Driving the increase were higher prices faced by record day and overnight visitors. Average spending by an overnight visitor ($261) was almost five times more than that of a day visitor ($57).

Visitor spending expanded 27% in 2022, to reach $1.2 billion.

Although spending by each cruise passenger fell slightly to $77 from $81 in 2021 , per visitor spend was still $11 higher than in 2019, resulting in cruise visitor spending at 12% above 2019 levels despite visitor volume being 4% below.

The return of cruise passengers to Galveston Island increased their share of total visitor volume to 13% in 2022 from 5% in 2021. Day visitors accounted for 52% of total visits, while 35% of guests stayed overnight.

reach record levels as effects from the increased 25% year -on-year to reach 8.1 after rising $243 million above prior year

Of the $1.2 billion spent on Galveston Island in 2022 by visitors, lodging contributed $374 million in sales – representing 32% of total visitor spending. Food and beverages accounted for 24% of total visitor spending. Visitors spent 18% of their total budget on recreation, 17% on retail, and 7% on transportation. Cruise spending at the port of $22 million represented 2% of total visitor spending.

The return of cruise passengers to Galveston visitor volume to 13% in 2022 from 5% total visits, while 35% of guests stayed

In 2022, travel demand gained momentum leading Galveston Island to welcome a record number of visitors. Cruise visits increased significantly in 2022, reaching 96% of 2019 levels, while the overnight and day segment extended gains experienced in 2021. Higher visitor volumes, as well as consumer prices, boosted direct visitor spending above $1 billion for the first time. Leisure and hospitality employment recovered above 2019 levels to support increased venue capacity as health concerns related to the Covid-19 pandemic faded. The vacation rentals market in Galveston Island accounted for 55% of total hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) collected in 2022, overtaking hotels as the largest contributor. Hotel revenues still grew at a modest pace of 6% year-on-year, reflecting higher overnight demand.

In 2022, travel demand gained momentum leading Galveston Island to welcome a record number of visitors. Cruise visits increased significantly in 2022, reaching 96% of 2019 levels, while the overnight and day segment extended gains experienced in 2021. Higher visitor volumes, as well as consumer prices, boosted direct visitor spending above $1 billion for the first time. Leisure and hospitality employment recovered above 2019 levels to support increased venue capacity as health concerns related to the Covid-19 pandemic faded. The vacation rentals market in Galveston Island accounted for 55% of total hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) collected in 2022, overtaking hotels as the largest contributor. Hotel revenues still grew at a modest pace of 6% year-on-year, reflecting higher overnight demand.

Hotel revenues grew 6.0% in 2022 versus the previous year to reach record levels. The revenue increase was supported by solid room-night demand growth of 9.2% in 2022, as the occupancy rate rose to 54.4%.

Hotel revenues grew 6.0% in 2022 versus the previous year to reach record levels. The revenue increase was supported by solid room-night demand growth of 9.2% in 2022, as the occupancy rate rose to 54.4%.

In 2022, the continued uptick in visitors staying at vacation rentals, robust day visitation growth, and cruise visitors close to full recovery resulted in a record number of visitors to Galveston Island of 8.1 million. Higher demand coupled with rising prices of key commodities helped direct visitor spending on Galveston Island to grow strongly for a second consecutive year in 2022, resulting in $1.2 billion.

TOURISM OVERVIEW

Visitors witnessed price increases across travel-related industries due to strong consumer demand in 2022. Price changes in the Houston MSA are a closer gauge of inflation experienced on Galveston Island than the national consumer price trend. The added impact from the war in Ukraine propelled gas price growth of 32% year-onyear. In addition to non-fuel related costs, such as airfares, travelers faced higher transport prices. Recreation (12%), food away from home (9%) and apparel (4%) CPI increased year-on-year. Overall, consumer prices increased 8% in 2022.

Visitors witnessed price increases across travel-related industries due to strong consumer demand in 2022. Price changes in the Houston MSA are a closer gauge of inflation experienced on Galveston Island than the national consumer price trend. The added impact from the war in Ukraine propelled gas price growth of 32% year-onyear. In addition to non-fuel related costs, such as airfares, travelers faced higher transport prices. Recreation (12%), food away from home (9%) and apparel (4%) CPI increased year-on-year. Overall consumer prices increased 8% in 2022.

Direct visitor spending of $1.2 billion generated a total economic impact of $1.5 billion on Galveston Island in 2022, including indirect and induced impacts. This total economic impact sustained 11,890 jobs and generated $120 million in state and local tax revenues in 2022.

Local HOT tax collections on Galveston Island grew 22.3% year-on-year to reach its highest ever level of $30.0 million in 2022. The increase was driven by an almost 50% increase in collections from vacation rentals which led the segment to overtake hotels as the biggest HOT contributor. Of total collections, 55% were from vacation rentals – up from 45% in 2021. HOT collections from hotels grew marginally in 2022 to $13.6 million.

Local HOT tax collections on Galveston Island grew 22.3% year-on-year to reach its highest ever level of $30.0 million in 2022. The increase was driven by an almost 50% increase in collections from vacation rentals which led the segment to overtake hotels as the biggest HOT contributor. Of total collections, 55% were from vacation rentals – up from 45% in 2021. HOT collections from hotels grew marginally in 2022 to $13.6 million.

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

Whether you are planning an intimate gathering, business dinner, or hosting the next holiday party, let Galveston Restaurant Group cater to you! Book your Holiday Catering & Festive Gatherings Now!

Private Banquet Facilities

Off-site Catering

Party Trays

Personalized Menus

Complete Bar & Waitstaff

EXTRAORDINARY FOOD! A Special Event Requires

Galveston Restaurant Group offers a wide variety of menu selections from our family of restaurants that we can personalize for any event

www.gisd.org

GALVESTON PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS EDUCATION OVERVIEW

EDUCATION OPTIONS

Galveston’s educational and healthcare sectors anchor the foundation of the island’s economic base. The University of Texas Medical Branch, (UTMB), Texas A&M University at Galveston (TAMUG), and Galveston College (GC), offer acclaimed programs and degrees. The Galveston Independent School District and a number of private schools provide the framework in the development of innovative training opportunities amongst a diverse array of educational pathways. Combined, these programs and institutions deliver exceptional training opportunities and workforce development resources.

Galveston serves nearly 16,000 students - primary through post secondary education levels:

• Galveston Independent School District

• Private/Charter Schools

• Galveston College

• Texas A&M University at Galveston

• University of Texas Medical Branch

UTMB, TAMUG and Galveston College routinely experience growth in student populations, facilities and programs.

With nearly 9,000 students in the three higher educational institutions, Galveston is indeed a college town. These institutions work collaboratively to translate their unique, world-renown programs, faculty and students into the fabric of Galveston and beyond. Focusing on the education and training of our future workforce, benefits of these resources extend well beyond the borders of Galveston and Galveston County.

GISD EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

To support teachers, the Galveston ISD Educational Foundation was established in 2002. To date, the foundation has awarded more than $3.5 million in grants. Allotments are varied and awarded to teachers, educational teams and/or campuses in support of the district’s strategic goals aimed at student outcomes. The foundation collaborates with the district to support a variety of district-wide programs and has reached thousands of students. Four main initiatives receiving priority are:

• Early literacy (reading on grade level by third grade)

• High school readiness (credit earned in Algebra 1and English 1 by ninth grade)

• College and career readiness (success on Advanced Placement, SAT, ACT, TSI, or CTE exams, achievement in dual credit courses, or by obtaining industry-level certifications or licenses)

• Innovation (pilot projects with evidence of potential success)

PRIVATE AND CHARTER SCHOOLS

The Galveston Independent School District and a number of private and charter schools provide the framework in the development of innovative training opportunities amongst a diverse array of educational pathways. Combined, these institu

including the communities of Port Bolivar and Crystal Beach on the Bolivar Peninsula. The school district is fully accredited by the Texas Education Agency. Programs such as Gifted and Talented, Special Education, Vocational and Bilingual/ESL are part of GISD.

Ball High School offers opportunities for graduates to be work force, military and college ready. In collaboration with Galveston College, dual credit courses are available for additional college hours. GISD is a tech hub for emerging opportunities as well.

GISD has made great progress the $314 Million bond package, see the details on this progress on pages 6,465.

EDUCATION OVERVIEW

GISD CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS

BALL HIGH SCHOOL

Ball High has a new STEAM Bus (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) that is now available to students as a “Mobile Makerspace.” It’s a classroom on wheels and it provides GISD students of all ages and grade levels with new opportunities to learn, grow and even teach fellow students along the way.

GISD MAGNET SCHOOLS

The four MSAP-funded magnet campuses listed below are now in their fourth year of implementation and will be sustained by the district after the grant ends in 2023. The APEX schools were established to provide equity and opportunities for students to meet challenging academic content and achievement standards in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In addition, the MSAP project enhances partnerships, professional development, and family engagement at the magnet schools.

CAREER TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION (CTE) PROGRAM

Texas CTE is an education initiative designed to prepare students for a lifetime of success. It allows students to achieve excellence by preparing them for secondary and postsecondary opportunities, career preparation and advancement, meaningful work, and active citizenship. Texas CTE is designed to help students (and their parents) make wise education choices. It is based on the belief that the curricula of the 21st century should combine rigorous academics with relevant career education. When schools integrate academic and technical education, students can see the “usefulness” of what they are learning. The system also facilitates a seamless transition from secondary to postsecondary opportunities by serving as a foundation for restructuring how schools arrange their instructional programs. A Career Cluster is a grouping of occupations and broad industries based on commonalities. The sixteen Career Clusters provide an organizing tool for schools. Career programs of study (POS) have been developed for each of the Career Clusters. The POS represent a recommended sequence of coursework based on a student’s interest or career goal. Ball High School has incorporated the Career Clusters into the Career and Technical Education department course structure and uses 14 of the clusters offering a wide range of career exploration and some of the sequences of courses lead toward the opportunity for a professional certification.

ROBOTICS PROGRAM

The students involved in the robotics program are world champions. The award winning robotics program has won local, state and world championship trophies.

GISD SCHOOLS OF CHOICE

• Moody Early Childhood Center

• Burnet Elementary STREAM Magnet

• Morgan Elementary School of Health, Medical Science and Engineering

• Parker Elementary School

• Oppe Elementary Magnet Campus of Coastal Studies

• Rosenberg Elementary School

• Crenshaw Environmental Science Magnet

• Weis Middle School, Austin Middle School

Central Middle School

• Ball High School

EDUCATION OVERVIEW

PRIVATE AND CHARTER SCHOOLS

Galveston Island serves about 1,500 students through its private and charter schools.

AMBASSADORS PREPARATORY

Pre-K3 through the 8th grade with an average enrollment of 200 students. non profit non-profit, tuition-free charter school opened in 2007 | 409-762-1115

HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Pre-K3 through the 8th grade since 1847 and accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference Educational Department, which is recognized by TEA. 409-765-6607

MOODY METHODIST DAY SCHOOL

As an extension of Moody Memorial First United Methodist Church, with an enrollment of about 275 children ages 3 mos - 8th grade. 409-744-5845

MOODY EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

A preschool for children ages 6 weeks to 4 years old, with an enrollment of around 200. 409-761-6930

ODYSSEY ACADEMY

A multi-campus open enrollment public charter school with locations in Galveston, League City, and El Lago, Texas. Grades pre K through high school. 409-750-9289

O’CONNELL HIGH SCHOOL

The 1847 O’ Connell Hight School is the oldest Catholic high school in the state of Texas. Serving grades 9-12 409-765-5534

SATORI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Serves children in Pre-K through sixth grade, in small multi-age classes. The school has 30 children currently enrolled. 409-763-7022

TRINITY EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

Accredited by the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools and the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest. Serving from 2 years through 8th grade. 275 Students 409-765-9391

UPWARD HOPE ACADEMY

A fully accredited, tuition-free private high school. Supports a strong STEM-oriented curriculum. More than 204 online and in house students in this program. 409-497-4393

GALVESTON COLLEGE

In fall 2023, Galveston College entered its 57th year of service to the Galveston region, providing affordable higher education and career training since opening its doors in September of 1967. Galveston College has grown into an innovative and dynamic community college that continues to promote student success and prepare a skilled workforce for the future.

Galveston College is one of only a handful of community colleges in Texas that offers bachelor’s degrees, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management which began in fall 2019 and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nursing, which welcomed its first cohort in fall 2022. In addition, Galveston College offers associate degrees, technical certificates, continuing education for professional and personal development, and customized training for business and industry. The college’s offerings include academic transfer programs for students who plan to pursue bachelor’s degrees and workforce programs for many of the area’s most in-demand careers.

Galveston College also boasts two athletics programs in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA): baseball and softball. Both teams compete in the NJCAA Division I, Region 14.

The Galveston College Board of Regents formulates and adopts policies that effectively guide the organization and operation of the college district. The board, representative of the citizenry of the Galveston Community College District, consists of nine members elected by position at-large. Members serve six-year terms.

The Main Campus features six major buildings: Moody Hall, Regents Hall, Mary Moody Northen Center, Fine Arts Building and Sarah H. Hermes Fitness Center, Eudine Meadows Cheney Student Center and the Abe and Annie Seibel Foundation Wing. Galveston College has two locations. The Main campus (4015 Avenue Q), located between 39th and 41st streets, includes additional parking, and apartments and housing for students close to campus.

The second location, the Charlie Thomas Family Applied Technology Center, (7626 Broadway Boulevard) opened in September 2013. This Center consists of four buildings with technical programs in Cosmetology, Welding Technology, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technology, Electrical & Electronics Technology and Pipefitting. Galveston College is prepared to offer additional technical programs within this Center as they are identified for the Galveston workforce.

Galveston College endeavors to provide access to higher education and training to every student that wants it. A full-time student (12 credit hours) who resides in the college district will pay tuition and fees of $1,039 per semester, making Galveston College one of the most affordable higher education opportunities in Texas.

A special program of the Galveston College Foundation called Universal Access, which has received national and statewide recognition, provides tuition assistance to every high school, home-schooled and GED graduate who lives in Galveston. The Galveston College Foundation also awards more than $60,000 annually in scholarships to students from 65 additional named and endowed scholarship funds.

Galveston College ended its 56th year in May 2023 with a commencement ceremony, graduating 602 students with 774 degrees and certificates.

In the summer of 2020, Galveston College opened the Abe and Annie Seibel Foundation Student Residences as the newest on-campus student housing which includes seven units designed to resemble the historical homes of Galveston. The project was funded with the generous support of the Abe and Annie Seibel Foundation, which also provided a significant capital expansion grant for the Abe and Annie Seibel Foundation Wing, allowing students and the community to gather for events ranging from civic, collegiate and evenings of powerful educational enrichment.

The growth of Galveston College continued in the summer of 2022 with the groundbreaking of the seventh major building on the Main Campus, a new three-story, 64,000-square-foot, state-ofthe-art Health Sciences Education Center, scheduled to be completed in fall 2023. With the new facility, Galveston College will be able to better train a highly skilled nursing and health care workforce for Galveston Island and Texas.

Galveston College offers over 50 individual certificates and degrees in our academic/transfer and workforce programs. Low tuition, small class sizes, and a diverse campus community make us the right choice to build your future.

• 50+ years of Academic Excellence

• 14.1 Average on-campus class size

• 73% of Freshmen awarded financial aid/grants

• 2,300 per semester in credit programs

GALVESTON COLLEGE BOARD OF REGENTS

Mary R. Longoria

Fred D. Raschke

Karen F. Flowers

Raymond Lewis Jr.

Michael B. Hughes

Carolyn L. Sunseri

Norman S. Hoffman

Garrik Addison

Armin Cantini

EDUCATION OVERVIEW

THE MARINE & MARITIME CAMPUS OF TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Texas A&M University at Galveston is dedicated to developing leaders who are changing the world. As the critical contributor to Texas A&M’s rare land-, sea-, space-grant mission, we educate nearly 2,200 undergraduate and graduate students annually in marine and maritime programs to lead the blue economy now and in the future. Our students live, learn and work in the heart of the industries they will soon serve. tamug.edu

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

Maritime Studies

Coastal Environment Science & Society

Marine Sciences

Marine Biology

Marine Fisheries

DRIVING THE BLUE ECONOMY

From conserving and protecting our oceans and coasts to ensuring the marine and maritime industries continue to support economic prosperity and national security, the blue economy encompasses all things economic, social, political and ecological regarding our oceans and surrounding ecosystems. Texas A&MGalveston strives to lead the development of the blue economy in the Gulf of Mexico through education, discovery, scholarship and service by focusing on the following areas:

• Maritime Transportation & Trade

• Offshore & Coastal Engineering

• Renewable Energies & Energy Complex

• Coastal Resiliency

• Fisheries

• Blue Humanities

• Coastal Tourism & Health

• Environmental Health

CAMPUS SNAPSHOT

2,200 ENROLLMENT

28% FIRST GENERATION

140 FACULTY

230 STAFF

60+ STUDENT ORGS

University Studies, Oceans & One Health

5-year undergraduate & graduate program available in partnership with the University of Texas Medical Branch with a Master’s in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

University Studies, Tourism & Coastal Community Development

Maritime Business Administration

Degree also available at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center in McAllen, TX

Marine Transportation

Marine Engineering Technology

OFFERED THROUGH THE TEXAS A&M COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Computer Science

Interdisciplinary Engineering, Engineering for Marine Environments

Multidisciplinary Engineering Technology, Electro Marine Engineering Technology

Ocean Engineering

GRADUATE DEGREES

Master of Marine Resources Management

Ph.D. in Marine & Coastal Management & Science

M.S., Ph.D in Marine Biology

Master of Maritime Business Administration & Logistics

OFFERED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE TEXAS A&M SCHOOL OF LAW

Master of Maritime Business Administration & Logistics and Juris Doctor

OFFERED THROUGH THE TEXAS A&M COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Master of Engineering in Ocean Engineering

M.S. in Ocean Engineering

TEXAS A&M MARITIME ACADEMY

Texas A&M University at Galveston is also home to the Texas A&M Maritime Academy, an American Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education, which offers hands-on training to students enrolled in certain academic programs to prepare them to earn a U.S. Coast Guard License to serve as maritime professionals afloat and ashore, or military service upon graduation. The academy offers two highly specialized license options – deck, a third mate unlimited tonnage license program; and engine, a third assistant engineer unlimited horsepower license program – which prepare graduates to operate and maintain oceangoing and inland waterway vessels. tamug.edu/corps

SUMMERS AT SEA

In addition to year-round practical experience, license-option students spend summer semesters at sea aboard the Texas A&M Maritime Academy’s training vessel, the TS Kennedy. The 540-foot ship serves as a living laboratory. Students gain hands-on experience in ship navigation and marine engineering systems maintenance, safety and security, and attend classes onboard. The semester includes stops in ports worldwide, providing students with valuable networking and cultural enrichment experiences.

ACADEMY SNAPSHOT

• 400 Cadets

• 1st U.S. academy to offer dynamic positioning certification through the Offshore Service Vessel Dynamic Positioning Authority (OSVDPA)

LONE STAR STATE

NATIONAL SECURITY MULTI-MISSION VESSEL

Congress approved $325 million in funding in December 2020 to construct the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV). The 524-foot state-ofthe-art ship represents a significant investment by the federal government in supporting the future of the maritime industry and future merchant mariners in Texas.

The NSMV series replaces the aging fleet of training ships currently in use by the six state maritime academies and is specifically designed to support both maritime training needs and disaster response capabilities. The vessels are equipped with numerous training spaces that can support up to 600 cadets at sea and also include critical disaster response capabilities in the Gulf of Mexico.

In May 2021, the campus received notification from the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) that the Texas A&M Maritime Academy’s NSMV was expected to arrive on campus in 2025 and would be named the Lone Star State.

In January 2023, Texas A&M Maritime Academy, TOTE Services, LLC and Philly Shipyard, Inc celebrated the steel cutting of the Lone Star State, marking another major construction milestone. The keel laying for the ship is currently scheduled for December 6, 2023.

“My entire staff is comprised solely of undergraduate student technicians and internship students, and they are essential to our mission to engage our campus and local community through research, education and outreach.”

Katie St. Clair Sea Life Facility Manager

RESEARCH & PARTNERSHIPS

Texas A&M University at Galveston has over 35 specialized labs and research groups dedicated to conducting and promoting marine, maritime and interdisciplinary research.

The Sea Life Facility provides an experimental research laboratory where undergraduate students can participate in research and volunteer opportunities, allowing Aggies to receive hands-on training for mariculture systems and practices.

The Gulf Research Institute for Highly Migratory Species aids in gathering critical data on habitat requirements, life and migration patterns of highly migratory species to enhance protection and conservation measures in the Gulf of Mexico. In addition, research conducted by the institute provides data to support healthy and sustainable fisheries, which are essential to fishing activities in the Gulf and contribute more than $11 billion annually to the Gulf’s blue economy.

Established in 2019, the Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research at Texas A&M is a consortium that aims to restore sea turtle populations in Texas. The center promotes turtle research, inspires future biologists and fosters connections with other research groups.

Institute for a Disaster Resilient Texas delivers critical research on disaster risk reduction, supports state agencies with data analytics and decision-making tools, and generates evidence-based solutions to help Texas communities become more resilient.

The Clean & Resilient Energy Systems (CARES) Lab is focused on developing smart and resilient solutions for emerging and evolving challenges in the field of cybersecurity, energy systems, and medicine. Automation and digitalization, apart from the many benefits they offer, have also resulted in remote and sophisticated cyberattacks. The lab’s research addresses this concern by developing machine learning-based cyber-resilient solutions for physical systems.

The university has also partnered with Galveston Wharves, Shell, cruise lines and CenterPoint to develop environmentally beneficial shore power at the Port of Galveston.

An Evening With The Duke Ellington Orchestra

Sat, Dec 16, 2023 | 8 PM

Celebrating its 100th anniversary season, enjoy Duke’s standard classics such as “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” “Take the “A” Train,” and more plus get in the holiday spirit with “The Nutcracker Suite.”

Healthy Communities, Healthy Economy

Opened in 1891, The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) has applied its expertise in education, patient care and research to improve health for more than 130 years. Always with an eye toward building a better future for the local, national and global communities its mission serves, UTMB Health is also invested in the economic health of Galveston and the surrounding region, through workforce development, biomedical discovery and helping to create a culture of innovation.

UTMB Fast Facts

FY2022 Metrics

(September 1, 2021 - August 31, 2022)

UTMB F AST F A C T S

UTMB FAST FACTS

1,195 GRADUATES (2021-2022)

3,808 STUDENTS (2021-2022)

693 RESIDENTS IN TRAINING

1,012 FACULTY

40,458 HOSPITAL DISCHARGES

1,568,591 OUTPATIENT ENCOUNTERS

6,394

128,368

NEW TEXANS DELIVERED EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT PATIENTS

Education

With a historic responsibility to train the health care workforce for Texas and beyond, UTMB Health has been committed to educational innovation for generations. Now with five schools—John Sealy School of Medicine, School of Nursing, School of Health Professions, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and School of Public and Population Health—the university takes an interprofessional approach so that students gain experience working as part of a health care team. Advanced simulation technology and problembased learning are central to this effort.

Patient Care

As Texas’ first academic health science center, UTMB Health has grown from two buildings on one campus to encompass four campuses with a total of six hospitals. The university’s Health System also includes an extensive network of 97 primary, specialty and urgent care clinics in 60 locations throughout the region. The UTMB Health System’s scope, along with its partnerships with community

EDUCATION OVERVIEW

physicians, ensures timely access to the right care as close to the patient’s home as possible, along with the potential for robust clinical research efforts.

State and national designations, along with specialty services, paint a picture of a comprehensive Health System capable of providing a full range of care, from the most basic health maintenance to advanced care for complex conditions:

• Galveston Campus—Level I Trauma Center serving as lead trauma facility for a nine-county region; American Burn Association Verified Burn Center; Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (highest level NICU), Comprehensive Stroke Center.

• Clear Lake Campus—Level II-capable Trauma Center (currently designated Level III); Pediatric Emergency Room; Level II NICU; 24/7 Neurosurgery coverage; 24/7 OB/GYN coverage; Primary Plus Stroke Center; Comprehensive Stroke Capable; Chest Pain Certification.

• League City Campus—Level III Trauma Center; 24/7 Neurology coverage; Primary Stroke Center.

• Angleton Danbury Campus—Level IV Trauma Center; Level I Neonatal Services

Innovations with Impact

Leveraging and building the next–generation solutions that will change the landscape of health care

Research

From Day 1 in 1891, UTMB Health has advanced the frontiers of biomedical science through rigorous inquiry and groundbreaking discovery. Today, the university’s research enterprise is a leader in such areas as infectious diseases and vaccine development; neuroscience; chronic diseases of aging, including cancer and diabetes; environmental health; and molecular medicine, structural biology and proteomics. Research funding has grown, even in a highly competitive environment, and the university’s Department of Microbiology & Immunology again ranks No. 1 in NIH funding among peer departments nationwide.

MBI is a subsidiary of the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) established to commercialize cutting-edge health care innovations developed by world-renowned scientists, clinicians and engineers. These health care innovations are born out of real-world gaps in the health care continuum and validated within the walls of a worldclass health sciences center at UTMB.

DIGITAL HEALTH

Next generation data aggregation, analytics, and problem solving

CLINICAL DELIVERY

Reducing the invasiveness of medical procedures and related complications

MEDICAL DEVICES

Engineering quality of life improvements

BIOTECH

Point-of-care diagnostics and CLIA testing

PHARMA

Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (APIs) formulation

LAB INSTRUMENTATION

Next generation sample processing and detection

For inquiries, contact Dr. Alex Vo at ahvo@utmb.edu or visit mbinnovations.co

Find out more or contact us at mbinnovations.co

UTMB Health is home to the Galveston National Laboratory (GNL), where infectious diseases such as COVID, influenza, Zika, Dengue, Ebola and others are safely studied. It is the only national laboratory in Texas and one of only two of its kind in the U.S. The GNL supports the work of scientists in the Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, the Sealy Institute for Vaccine Development and numerous centers.

The university’s NIH-funded Institute for Translational Sciences aims to train a new generation of clinical and translational researchers, engage stakeholders and communities in research, address barriers to clinical and translational research, and advance translational research through team-based approaches.

EDUCATION OVERVIEW

In 2022, UTMB Health launched a Drug Discovery Institute to bring together expertise in virology, pharmacology, toxicology and medicinal chemistry to develop oral drugs to treat infectious diseases and other threats to human health. The UTMB-Novartis Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness, funded by a $56 million NIH grant, launched in 2022 to advance antiviral drug discovery.

To leverage its expertise in the neurosciences, the university is creating a Brain Health Institute to amplify faculty’s research, education and clinical expertise in neurodegenerative diseases, traumatic brain injury, stroke, addiction and pain management.

UTMB Office of Technology Transfer

FY2023 Metrics

UTMB FAST FACTS

(September 1, 2022 - August 31, 2023)

FY2021

2020 - August 31, 2021)

$9.2

The Life Science Incubator is a catalyst facility positioned to energize technology transfer and commercialization resulting from research and development cultivated through UTMB Health.

This initiative is designed to stimulate establishment and growth of technology-based startup companies and other compatible businesses. This center includes wet-lab, office and educational space; flexible leases; shared use of common office equipment; business assistance and guidance; mentoring; networking to capital; and other technical resources.

This effort will contribute to job creation and will enhance economic health in the region.

PROMOTING AND ADVOCATING FOR BUSINESS COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT SINCE 1845 AND

With a rich history dating back to 1845, the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce has been a steadfast advocate for businesses for over 178 years. Our unwavering mission underscores our dedication to nurturing a resilient community that fosters successful businesses, spanning not only within our immediate vicinity but also across the broader region.

Embrace the opportunity to connect with us by becoming a member of the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce today!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Galveston Island Country Music Fest

January 13, 2024

Lemonade Day

Galveston County

May 4, 2024

35th Annual Golf Tournament

May 23, 2024

17th Annual Galveston Women’s Conference

September 12, 2024

For more information, please visit GalvestonChamber.com or call 409.763.5326

Gina M. Spagnola, IOM President and CEO

THE ROLE OF GOVERNMENT IN PRIVATE SECTOR DISASTER RECOVERY

Most state and federal programs focus on restoring community infrastructure and ensuring that housing needs are met. The Small Business Administration (SBA) may offer loans to business owners damaged by a disaster to make necessary repairs. Other federal and state programs may be available after a disaster, including Economic Development Administration resources, but these funds are typically not available to small business owners. While local, state and federal disaster recovery employees will work with small business owners after a disaster, on the whole, most post-disaster recovery resources are not designed to help a small business owner get back in business.

Even though a business owner may benefit greatly from government sponsored disaster recovery programs, such as the SBA disaster loan program, business owners are mostly on their own when it comes to remaining in business. This is why it is crucial for all business owners to take steps to reduce their vulnerability and understand the steps that must be taken in the aftermath of a disaster - BEFORE a disaster strikes. These issues can be questioned and covered through the development of individual business continuity plans. The GEDP Disaster Recovery Guide has been developed specifically to assist your enterprise in assessing your vulnerability and highlighting critical information that will be used in your continuity planning effort.

The Business Continuity Resource Guide was created by the GEDP for the Galveston business community to use as part of their Disaster Toolkit.

The toolkit consist of forms and information that, if completed, allows owners to increase the odds that their business will make it through the next disaster.

The guidebook will assist with the following:

» Outline what actions may be taken to minimize the disruptive effects of a disaster on operations.

» Understand the differing roles and responsibilities of government and business owners in private sector disaster recovery.

» Provide information needed to develop a comprehensive business disaster continuity plan.

PREPARING IS THE BEST PLAN

Any business owner will tell you they are in business for many reasons, near the top of that list will include - to stay in business and make money. The reasons for this are as obvious as they are age old: to cover mortgage payments, the children’s college tuition, to obtain the amenities required not only to live but to enjoy life.

...The continuity plan focuses on procedures for minimizing any potential losses and ensuring a speedy recovery from disaster.

As the name implies a continuity plan is a premeditated strategy for continuing business in the event of a disaster. While never a guarantee that a business affected by disaster will go completely unscathed, preparing a continuity plan will help the small-business owner minimize potential losses and anticipate the actions they will need to take in the event of a disaster.

A continuity plan is not a contingency plan - it does not spell out the details of who must do what in the event of a contingency- such as a store fire, robbery attempt or power failure - although it may be quite helpful for a business owner to write down step-by-step procedures for dealing with each of these emergencies. The continuity plan focuses on procedures for minimizing potential losses and ensuring a speedy recovery from disaster.

The GEDP will hold a Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity workshop in 2024 to help businesses prepare in the event of a disaster. Contact the GEDP to learn more.

UTMB Life Science Incubator Opens

their success and contribution to the economy.

This collaborative incubator facility located in the Customs House is the result of more than twenty years of leadership, vision, and expertise of UTMB, GEDP staff and membership, and our partners throughout Galveston and the region.

The Customs House, completed in 1933, was built as an Immigration Station and functioned as originally intended until 1940, when it was turned over to the U.S. Customs Service. It was the headquarters for the Galveston office of the Customs Service until 1976, when it was acquired by UTMB.

million. This funding was used to complete repairs and renovations to the building and equipment located in the basement, first and second floors, to accommodate the activities of the: UTMB Center for Technology Transfer; UTMB Telemedicine and Health Technology; UTMB Medical Branch Innovations; UTMB Office of Educational Outreach and the Galveston Economic Development Partnership. Through the collaborative efforts of the GEDP’s Emerging Technology Task Force, UTMB and relationships with regional partners, the concept of the Incubator was developed.

In 2019, the GEDP partnered with UTMB to obtain a $2M Economic Development

Administration (EDA) grant and $500K in matching funds from UTMB to complete the renovations of the 3rd floor to provide office space and wetlabs for the Life Science Incubator.

Through the agreement with UTMB, the GEDP manages the Incubator with input from the Customs House Oversight Committee (CHOC). This collaboration is intended to leverage resources, enhance the local and regional economies, create new jobs, and ultimately drive the emerging technology ecosystem for Galveston and Galveston County

– Goals –

• Facilitate the establishment of Life Science start ups.

• Attract industry-sponsored and collaborative research.

• Build regional partnerships with other technology incubators and accelerators.

“ It’s an exciting day for UTMB and the GEDP. We’ve been working together on this for a long time. I have been honored to work on this effort through the Oversight Committee and the GEDP Emerging Technology Task Force. I look forward to working with everyone going forward. This facility has great potential for Galveston.”

- Dr. Darrell Carney Chrysalis BioTherapeutics GEDP Emerging Technology Task Force, Co-Chair

City of Galveston

Mayor and City Council

Proclaim – November 8, 2023

“UTMB Life Science Incubator Day”

On a blue-sky afternoon in November, more than 100 people from Galveston, Galveston and Harris Counties, and as far away as Chicago, converged atop the steps at the main entrance of the Customs House at 1700 Strand. They came to learn about the new Incubator from a distinguished panel of speakers. UTMB President Dr. Jochen Reiser jokingly switched between his sun glasses and reading glasses as he spoke of his excitement about this day, all the work that had gone into developing this facility, and the importance of innovation at UTMB, what it can mean in both improved health outcomes as well as job growth and economic benefits for Galveston, and beyond.

BRIDGING Opportunities

GEDP Vice-Chair, Bill Coltzer Jr., Zero/Six Consulting, LLC, represented the GEDP at the Open House ceremony. Drawing upon his experience as a long-time Galveston businessman and professional architect, Bill spoke of his love for historical buildings and gave attendees some additional points of history for the Customs House.

He noted the more than $12M that spurred development of office and incubator space at the CustomsHouse was part of more than $30M in funding from Economic Development Administration (EDA) for Galveston obtained through the efforts of the GEDP and our partners in our region.

BRIDGING Opportunities

The GEDP initiated a new program in 2023, called the Galveston Construction Consortium.

The purpose of the Consortium is to bring the construction industry together in a manner that not only strengthens the industry, but it also better serves the community that supports it.

The Consortium meets quarterly at this time and is open for all Galveston County architects, engineers, general contractors, home builders, sub-contractors, suppliers, and anyone who participates in the construction industry, including finance, insurance, marketing, etc.

Meetings are held in locations throughout Galveston and include discussions on topics important to the region’s construction industry.

Insurance changes impacting our region, local codes and their effects on the industry, development processes, and developing a local resource registry are just a few of the topics that have been explored.

Meetings are a casual gathering for enjoying good company, sharing information and ideas, and making contacts with needed resources.

Response to this new program has been tremendous and we hope you’ll join us soon.

You can find more information on this and other GEDP programs at our website: GEDP.ORG.

Our Services

Our solutions are custom-tailored to fit the needs of our clients, and our experience is wide-ranging and covers a variety of industries. Whether you’re a financial institution looking to improve its processes or a shipping company aiming for improved logistics and warehouse security, GB Tech can design and implement the solution you need.

IT Services

• Professional Network Services

• Unified Communications

• Business Continuity

• Help Desk Support

• Cloud Services

• Virtualization

• Mobile Device Management

Software Quality & Security

• Software Quality Assurance / Verification & Validation

• Secure Application Development

• Third Party Application Assurance

• Web Application Security

• Surveillance & Security Other Services

• Logistics

• Project Management

• IT Infrastructure

Get in Touch

If you recognize the risks and obstacles that impede your business mission and care about finding the right solution to the challenges your business faces, GB Tech could be a perfect fit for you. We’d love to discuss what our team can do to help you prepare for the future.

Houston Office

2200 Space Park Drive, Suite 400 Houston, TX 77058

Together, we will power progress and drive our community towards new horizons of success.

At CenterPoint Energy, we aim to create an environment where your business can operate consistently, secure in the knowledge that your energy needs will be met. This means fewer disruptions, increased productivity and the ability to attract new industries to our shared communities.

Through our commitment to enhancing our electric infrastructure, we are building a brighter, more resilient and prosperous future for all. CenterPointEnergy.com/EnergyForTheFuture

BRIDGING OPPORTUNITIES

GISD 2022 BOND PROJECTS UPDATE

The Galveston Independent School District is a little more than one year into their $314,000,000 bond project and there has been a lot of progress!

By Bill Coltzer Zero/Six Consulting, LLC

Kermit Courville Stadium was the first project out of the chute and is back in service after an extreme makeover that was (for the most part) completed in the off season; we missed opening day by less than two weeks. Of the original 1938 complex, only the concrete bleachers remain, but they even saw over $2M in restoration work and then received about $500,000 of new seating. Also included in the stadium project is a new field house, a new concession building, a new field (for football and soccer), and a digital scoreboard that is controlled by the BHS student body!

The stadium was delivered under a design-build agreement with Hellas Construction out of Austin, but many local contractors such as Jamail-Smith Construction, Lucas Construction, Crescent Electric, Broome Welding, Mitchell Chuoke Plumbing, and Roberts Air Conditioning also helped push the project across the finish line. A big THANK YOU to all our hometown heroes; we could not have done it without you. Still to come (in the next off season) is a new press box designed by PBK Architects, that will sit over the home side bleachers.

Weiss Middle School is in the middle of a three-phase interior project that will see the building reprogrammed to a 5th and 6th grade campus for the 24/25 school year. Phase one was completed over the summer by Unbehagen Construction and Phase two is underway with Jamail Smith. Phase 3 will be bid in the coming weeks. Project is mostly interior in nature and plans were prepared by PBK Architects.

Central Middle School is also in the middle of a multiphase project that includes roofing as well as interior renovations. F.W. Walton, Inc. out of Houston, is wrapping up the complete re-roofing of the school while Unbehagen Construction is focusing on the renovation of restroom facilities. When all work is complete, Central will be reprogrammed to a 7th and 8th grade campus for the 24/25 school year. Plans were prepared by PBK Architects.

Austin Middle School will be converted to an elementary school in the fall of 2024 and a multiphase approach will once again be required to keep the school “in business”. Phase 1 is currently underway with Unbehagen Construction with phases 2 and 3 still on the drawing board with PBK.

The lion’s share of the bond funds is being used to replace the existing Ball High School with a new state of the art facility that will retain the “Ball High School” branding. The new facility will be comprised of two buildings spanning each side of avenue O and

connected by a pedestrian bridge. The building on the north side of Avenue O is a classroom facility that will be constructed first to allow the teaching component to be relocated so that the existing Ball High can be partially demolished. The new Ball High South building will house extracurricular activities such an auditorium, gymnasiums, weight/locker rooms, and a new pool! Plans for the project were prepared by PBK Architects and Construction Management is being performed by Gilbane Construction Company in collaboration with J.W. Kelso Company of Galveston.

Zero/Six Consulting, LLC headquartered out of Galveston, Texas is the Program Manager and Commissioning Agent for all the bond projects; with over 20 Ball High Alums in the company, Zero/Six is beyond proud to be part of this once in a lifetime project.

Colton Meiman Store Manager

The maritime industry has numerous high-wage, high-demand job opportunities available right here in Galveston, Texas.

Galveston Independent School District’s, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department has been working with the Galveston Chamber of Commerce, the Port of Galveston, Galveston College, and Texas A&M University – Galveston, to develop a pathway that will allow an increasing number of students to enter maritime careers in port-related industries.

This Program of Study (POS) will provide higher education in Maritime Science, Distribution and Logistics, and other related fields of study such as Environment, and the Global Supply Chain.

Students will have the opportunity to explore the various careers within the Maritime Science, Distribution and Logistics POS’s, which will assist students in discovering their interests and matching them with opportunities available to them after graduation. In addition, students learn what level of education, professionalism and work experience they need to succeed in their chosen career.

Opportunities of this Maritime Workforce Program include dual credit courses, certifications, field trips, workshops, seminars, internships, and scholarship opportunities.

Maritime Workforce

Port Investing Millions in Cruise, Cargo Growth

By Rodger Rees Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The Galveston Wharves is a growing economic powerhouse, boosting jobs and revenues as it invests millions of dollars in waterfront infrastructure. The port’s major cruise and cargo projects ensure a strong future for this citizen-owned entity and create new opportunities for its port partners, area residents and regional businesses.

These investments will exponentially increase port revenues, waterfront jobs and wages, as well as direct payments and sales tax revenues to the city. The port’s success also benefits the region, stimulating more indirect jobs and other economic growth.

Guided by the 20-Year Strategic Master Plan, the port is expanding its West Port Cargo Complex, moving closer to finalizing a public/private partnership to build a fourth cruise terminal, improving its original cruise terminal to accommodate more passengers, and expanding its cruise parking operation.

“ As a major economic engine for the city of Galveston, we will continue to look for ways to bridge opportunities to benefit our port partners, the community and the region.“

West Port Cargo Complex

The port is moving forward with $50.1 million in improvements at the West Port Cargo Complex, with a $36M state grant and $14.1M port match. The port staff has already prepared engineering design and partial construction drawings for enclosure walls, a 1,340-foot-long berth across two open slips, and concrete paving.

The project will replace aging infrastructure and add about 500 linear feet of berthing area to be used for cargo and lay ships, creating local jobs and additional revenue

for the port. Construction is expected to begin in 2024, with completion projected by 2026.

Proposed Fourth Cruise Terminal

As of the date of this publication, the port was working to finalize plans for a proposed fourth cruise terminal at Pier 16.

A proposed fourth cruise terminal at Pier 16 is projected to generate 925 direct, induced and indirect jobs; $177.4M in local business revenue; and nearly $5.1M in state and local taxes. Estimated local business revenues per

Photo by Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

INVESTING IN GALVESTON

vessel call are estimated to be $2.1M. The projections are based on assumptions of 82 ships annually, with about 615,000 passengers embarking and disembarking.

Cruise Terminal 25 Upgrades

The port is spending roughly $50M to upgrade its original cruise terminal to

accommodate the newly built Carnival Jubilee, which homeports in Galveston beginning Dec. 23. Improvements to the terminal include refurbishment throughout, a new Customs and Border Protection Facility, a new passenger boarding bridge and other improvements to facilitate more efficient passenger movements.

Expanding Cruise Parking

Cruise parking is a major revenue generator for the port. As our cruise business grows, our parking infrastructure is expanding to meet customer demand. The port operates lots totaling approximately 5,000 spaces and is expanding its Express Lot to serve cruise terminals 25 and 28.

Cruise Business Funds Port Growth

As a self-sustaining city entity, we fund our cruise, cargo and transportation infrastructure improvements largely with our cruise business. It generates roughly 60 percent of port revenues, which we leverage with grants and public-private partnerships to fund improvements throughout our 840acre port.

Thanks to Galveston’s popularity as a cruise home port and the rebound of the cruise industry after the pandemic, we’re well on our way to setting new records in passenger counts, operational revenues and more. The city will directly benefit with sales tax and cruise direct payments.

The Port of Galveston, the fourth most popular cruise port in the U.S., is on track to reach a record 1.3 million-1.4 million passengers by the end of the year.

As a major economic engine for the city of Galveston, we’ll continue to look for ways to bridge opportunities to benefit our port partners, the community and the region.

Photo by Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

It’s “Wings Up” at Scholes International Airport

Scholes International Airport (GLS) is a general aviation reliever airport and serves as a valuable asset in meeting the needs of businesses, private pilots, and aviation enthusiasts.

Following its recent completion of an update to the Airport Master Plan and Business Plan, efforts have shifted to the implementation of the plan.

One major goal derived from these planning efforts is to obtain a Part 139 Certification by the FAA to provide commercial air service for Galveston.

The FAA has recently inspected the airport and provided an achievable list of items the Airport needs to accomplish to meet the commercial air service certification requirements.

Utilizing the Capital Improvement Program, the airport’s primary planning tool for identifying and prioritizing development, the following projects and their funding sources, have been identified to begin moving forward.

Taxiway Realignment, Apron Reconstruction, and Drainage Improvement projects are set to enhance safety and meet the current FAA design guidelines.

The Taxiway Realignment project will move and reconstruct Taxiway E on the closed runway. Upon completion, this project will double the number of suitable aircraft taxiways capable of supporting 600,000-pound aircraft performing essential life-saving air operations responding to any major disaster or emergency in the upper Texas Gulf Coast region.

The Apron Reconstruction project will reconstruct a portion of the existing ramp to ensure the Airport has three suitable aircraft parking areas capable of supporting 600,000-pound aircraft, such as the C-17 aircraft typically utilized during disaster recovery efforts.

The Drainage improvement project will focus on the south side of the airfield and is set to reduce the impact of flooding events and maintenance costs associated with the taxiways and runways in its immediate vicinity.

While GLS is a municipally owned airport, it does not receive any ad valorem tax dollars and must fund itself through its operations. Currently, 62 tenants are doing business at the airport, and soon that number will grow.

By the end of the year, the airport will welcome Leadership In Flight Training (LIFT) Academy, a flight school based out of Indiana. LIFT will initially utilize hangar and office space for its Indianapolis winter operations, with anticipation of expanding operations into a full-time island facility for its flight training program.

LIFT Academy is owned by Republic Airways, one of the largest regional airlines in the United States. Republic is the only regional airline to operate its own training academy, and LIFT Academy’s innovative, cutting-edge program provides aviators with the skills they need to succeed with a defined pathway to a career at Republic Airways.

Achieving this caliber of new aviation tenants reflects the investments made in the airport facilities and increased efforts to attract new business to the airport.

Photo by Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

Shriners Children’s Texas

A Specialty Pediatric Healthcare Facility

The history of Shriners Children’s in Texas began in 1920 when the Arabia Shrine opened an orthopedic clinic in downtown Houston in response to the polio epidemic. It grew from there and officially became part of the Shriners Children’s hospital system in 1966. In Galveston, a pediatric burn hospital was also opened in 1966 in partnership with UTMB, thanks to then UTMB President, Dr. Truman Blocker. This burn hospital was the first of its kind in the Shriners Children’s system, and it soon became a world leader in pediatric burn care and pediatric burn research.

In 2021, the hospitals in Houston and Galveston were combined to form Shriners Children’s Texas, a world-renowned specialty pediatric healthcare facility, right

here in Galveston. As one hospital, Shriners Children’s Texas provides acute burn and reconstructive care, surgical and rehabilitative care for orthopedic conditions, and surgical and related care for cleft lip and palate. Also on site is an innovative research laboratory which advances new discoveries in treatments for patients around the world.

The current building in Galveston was completely renovated in 2021 to accommodate all three main service lines, and the campus is currently undergoing a major expansion. Currently under construction behind the main building is a brand new 40 unit housing facility, which will house up to 34 patient families, along with six rooms for traveling medical students. Also underway is construction for a brand

new multi-level parking garage, which will span over Postoffice Street. The construction project is scheduled to be complete in the summer of 2024.

This new expansion will provide a convenient place for patients and families to stay while receiving treatment at the hospital, and it will also provide much-needed parking for patients and hospital staff. This expansion project will help Shriners Children’s Texas better fulfill the important mission of serving more children in more places with the most amazing care, anywhere.

Learn More: www.shrinerschildrens.org

Aerial View from 8th Street

At HomeTown Bank, lending is our specialty.

Friendly, knowledgeable loan officers are just a local phone call away, ready to support you, carefully measuring and constructing the best strategy to make your project possible. Visit one of our Loan Offers today and watch your plans come to life.

Galveston Main Bank: 1801 45th St.

Cesar Hernandez, Senior Vice President

Brandon Rogers, Vice President

Seawall Branch: 45th & Seawall Blvd.

Scott Kusnerik, Executive Vice President

Alvin: 1050 N. Bypass 35

Chad Dudley, Senior Vice President

Pearland: 2651 Pearland Parkway

Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President

League City: 1406 W. Main St. (FM 518)

Steve Owens, Senior Vice President

Jim Goebel, Vice President

Friendswood Downtown: 601 S. Friendswood Dr.

Allan Rasmussen, President and CEO

Bill Provenzano, Senior Vice President

Scott Asimakis, Vice President

Friendswood Bay Area: 3211 East FM 528

Tyron Collins, Senior Vice President

Online Banking: www.HomeTown.Bank

Photo by Robert Mihovil/Mihovil

Photography

GALVESTON COLLEGE HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION CENTER

Photo by Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

To meet the needs of local health care employers, the Galveston Community College District Board of Regents approved the construction of a new 64,000-square-foot Health Sciences Education Center at the Galveston College main campus in Sept. 2021.

“Over the past 30 years, the health care industry has been greatly changed by technological advances,” said Galveston College Board of Regents Chair, Karen Flowers. “After years of planning and assessment, the Galveston College Board of Regents determined that a new Health Sciences Education Center is vital for faculty, students and today’s essential technology.”

Designed by PBK Architects of Houston, the Health Sciences Education Center will be three stories tall, with a footprint and layout similar to a medical center, and located at the corner of 39th Street and Avenue R in Galveston. The facility will align with the aesthetics of the campus and community and will contain classrooms, laboratories, simulation labs, lecture halls, student study spaces and offices.

The Health Sciences Education Center will house Galveston College’s Nursing programs and nine Health Sciences programs, including: Computerized Tomography, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Emergency Medical Services, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiation Therapy, Radiography, Surgical Technology and Healthcare Management.

Galveston College officially kicked off the construction phase of the new 64,000-square-foot, three-story Health Sciences Education Center on June 16, 2022 during a groundbreaking ceremony at the College’s Main Campus.

INVESTING IN GALVESTON

“Galveston College’s new Health Sciences Education Center will benefit our students by enriching their learning experience and the quality of their education,” said Galveston College President, W. Myles Shelton, Ed.D. “With this new facility, Galveston College will be able to better train a highly skilled nursing and health care workforce for Galveston Island and Texas.”

“

With this new facility, Galveston College will be able to better train a highly skilled nursing and health care workforce for Galveston Island and Texas. ”

The College’s Health Sciences programs provide students with opportunities to gain hands-on experience from an industry-

experienced faculty. All of Galveston College’s Health Sciences programs are taught using a combination of classroom instruction and laboratory or clinical/practical experience which produces graduates who are ready to enter the workforce.

In addition to associate degrees and certificates, Galveston College boasts two bachelor’s degrees in health care, a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Management.

The new facility will allow for the College’s nursing programs to expand and double the capacity of the Radiology, Sonography and Surgical Technology programs.

The construction of this contemporary instructional facility is part of the college’s strategic plan to cultivate these programs, grow enrollment and provide rewarding employment opportunities to the community.

Galveston College broke ground for the construction of the new $30 million Health Sciences Education Center in June 2022. Six months later, in November 2022, the first steel girders were erected and the frame for a portion of the new facility was noticeable. In January 2023, Galveston College rang in the new year with a Topping Off Ceremony to celebrate the time-honored construction tradition of the placement of the last structural beam on a building project. The construction phase of the Health Sciences Education Center is scheduled to be completed in fall 2023.

Elliott Electric Supply is a regional leader in the electrical supplies distribution industry, with over 188 stores throughout the southern states. Our unparalleled focus on providing every customer with the highest quality service for the lowest cost, and our history of doing so since 1972, makes Elliott Electric Supply your most dependable and all-around smartest option when it comes to choosing an electrical supplier.

We are committed to providing our customers with the most knowledgeable sales staff in the industry, to developing strategic partnerships with customers and manufacturers, and to constantly improve services and operations. We look forward to continue serving you at our store in Galveston, Texas.

• 2022 Sales: Over $2 Billion

• Ranked #8 in Top 150 Electrical Distributors by Electrical Wholesaling Magazine (May-June 2023)

• Over 188 Stores in 11 States

• 15 Store Locations in the Greater Houston Area

• Over $60 Million in Greater Houston Area Inventory

• Authorized Dealer of Eaton Products

• Scan the QR code to download Elliott Electric Supply’s free app

BRIDGING OPPORTUNITIES

GALVESTON ARTS AND CULTURE PLAN

What is Arts Tourism? Arts or Creative Tourism, involves visiting destinations that feature art in some form. In 2012 Galveston received a Downtown Cultural Arts District Designation. Ten years later, a Master Plan for the arts was completed through a collaboration by the Galveston Arts Center, Park Board, Historic Downtown Partnership and City, and partially funded by the National Endowment for the Arts and Parks Board. Here are a few highlights from the Master Plan.

Galveston Arts & Culture Assets:

• 5 National Registered Historical Districts

• 25 Art Galleries

• 15+ Informal Performance Spaces

• 9 Museums

• 15+ Annual Cultural Events

• 2 Theatres

• 4 Arts Instruction Venues

• 6 Arts Organizations

• 1 Library

• 15+ Historical Tour Operators

The Creative Vitality Index (CVI) measures the per capita concentration of creative activity based on revenues. The 2020 CVI is 1.08 for Galveston, with a total of

1,233 creative jobs or 2% of all jobs. Creative industry earnings were $37.3M. Nonprofit cultural institutions revenues were $10.9M.

Market Potential Index is a measure of consumer demand. It is compared to a national benchmarked average of 100, so if an index is higher the consumer spending is greater than average. Galveston has several arts activities with high indexes. Buyers counts measure the expected number of people in an area who are likely to purchase a product or service.

Economic Impacts of nonprofit arts and culture sector in Galveston consist of:

1 Spending by off-island visitors and retained locals to museums and theatres

2. Off-island visitors to festivals and events

3. Arts and culture organization operational spending.

The 2021 total estimated operational expenditures plus spending by attendees is reported at $26,612,000.

Source: City of Galveston Cultural Arts Commission Galveston Arts and Culture Master Plan, November 2022

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

What do you think of, when you think of the Arts as an industry? Likely, you first remember the pleasure you felt when attending an event, the dinner before the show, the opportunity to gather in a place of beauty or history to witness a live performance. You probably don’t think about what the arts, as an industry, provides to the economic vitality of our country, its large cities and small towns. Here are a few facts to open your eyes to the Opportunities.

Arts and Culture is a trillion dollar industry. To put that in perspective for all of us sports fans, professional sports is closer to $80 billion. We think of sports as much larger because of the availability of games on television and enormous stadiums that hold 100,000 fans. Yet, most of our communities, whether large or small, have performances that generate income for the community through pre-show dinner, parking, babysitting, gas, you name it. Arts festivals do the same – as does virtually every facet of the arts in a community.

This trillion-dollar industry remains greater than the value added by such industries

economics of the arts and culture TOURISM

as sports, construction, transportation and warehousing, mining, and agriculture. Arts and cultural industries had 5.2 million workers on payroll with total compensation of $447 billion. This figure does not include self-employed arts workers.

A recent study done by Americans for the Arts underscores what businesses across the nation have witnessed – that investments in arts and culture not only enhance the quality of life, but also stimulate economic development, helping to create an environment where creativity, businesses and communities thrive.

Nonprofit arts and culture organizations are businesses! They employ people locally, purchase supplies and services from other local businesses and engage in the marketing and promotion of their cities and regions. Their very act of doing business— creating, presenting, exhibiting, engaging—has a positive economic impact and improves community well-being.

Arts and culture drives commerce to local businesses. When people attend a cultural event, they spend approximately $38.45

per person, per event, beyond the cost of admission – vital income for local merchants and a value-add with which few industries can compete.

Arts and culture strengthens the visitor economy. One-third of attendees travel from outside the county in which the activity takes place. (In the case of The Grand 1894 Opera House, the number is closer to 75%.) They spend an average of $60.57, twice that of their local counterparts. Three-quarters of non-local attendees reported that the primary purpose of their visit was to attend that cultural event.

The arts, in every community, instills pride in their city, builds more livable communities, keeps residents spending locally, helps to build empathy and understanding of different cultures, and sparks creativity and innovation.

Galveston is Bridging Opportunities for Arts Tourism and Cultural appreciation.

Maureen M. Patton | Executive Director

The Grand 1894 Opera House www.thegrand.com

OPROJECTS ON THE HORIZON

ur theme presented at the 2023 summit was “Bridging Opportunities.” We are pleased to see the continued investment and growth in Galveston. The following pages showcase projects in the works.

THE DUNSTAN- AT THE YACHT BASIN

East End | Holiday Drive

A new vertical development near UTMB includes a three-story parking garage.

A five-story, 300-unit multifamily luxury development is in development on six acres next to the Galveston Yacht Basin on the east end.

The Brownstone Group, with partners Rocky Sullivan and Greg Pappas, are behind the development, called The Dunstan, being constructed next to the marina and walking distance to the University of Texas Medical Branch. This will be a Class-A multifamily complex, which is something needed on the island.

HOTEL LUCINE/THE FANCY

10th and Seawall Blvd.

In November of 2023, partners Dave Jacoby, Keath Jacoby, and Robert Marcus opened the 61-room boutique Hotel Lucine opened on the seawall, providing guests with features such as a classic courtyard style with a pool, a 3,500-square-foot rooftop bar with 180-degree ocean views, and seven-daysa-week restaurant called The Fancy with “American Fine-ish Dining.”

A 525-square-foot full-service dining space inside the Hotel Lucine is available for meetings, events and entertainment.

The 25,000 square-foot two-story building was originally opened in 1963 as the Treasure Isle Motel.

UTMB LIFE SCIENCE INCUBATOR

1700 Strand Street

Project Update- The 2.5 million dollar renovation project funded in part through EDA has been completed. A celebration of the opening in early November was well attended and a much needed wet lab and office space in emerging technology incubator space is now available.

THE OLEANDERS AT BROADWAY | 4500 Broadway

The Galveston Housing Authority in cooperation with McCormack Baron Salazar and the General Land Office are constructing this multi-family housing area on the 11,483-acre site of the former public housing destroyed as a result of Hurricane Ike.

Amenities and features to be included: fitness room, computer rooms, and management/leasing space, community pool and cabana, tot lot pocket playgrounds, covered picnic areas, sidewalks, off-street covered parking, and in-unit laundry.

A proposed total of 348 units will be available to lease, of which 261 are planned for setting aside as low- to moderate-income (LMI) units. The 261 total includes 174 units for LMI households and 87 units as LMI Tax Credit units. A total of 87 units are planned as market rate units.

Completion of the management building was projected for September of 2023.

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON

GALVESTON URBAN MINISTRIES CENTER

1804 69th Street

Groundbreaking - November 30, 2023. Project completion projected in 2024.

Total approx. size: 17,000 sf Approx. project cost: $5 million Contractor: Paradigm Construction

This project is funded through private and foundation support. A few of the generous contributions are from Moody Foundation, Ippolito Charitable Foundation of Galveston, Mabee Foundation, and the Bouvier Family Foundation.

A renovation to an existing 12,800 sf metal building with an addition of 5,000 sf to serve as a retreat and training center for Galveston Urban Ministries to:

• Offer year-round lodging for up to 100 paying, nightly guests and contribute to GUM’s sustainability

• Serve as a training center for unemployed and under-employed Galvestonians while also creating management, hospitality, tourism and marketing jobs within the complex itself

• Serve as a shelter and resource in times of natural disasters

SHRINERS CHILDREN’S TEXAS

8125 Market Street - East End

Shriners Hospital-Galveston and Shriners Hospital-Houston recently merged to form Shriners Children’s Texas. In doing so, the entire Houston operations moved to Galveston.

The need for family and patient housing was identified and is currently under construction. Behind the main building is a brand new 40 unit housing facility, which will house up to 34 patient families, along with six rooms for traveling medical students. Also underway is construction for a brand new multi-level parking garage, which will span over Postoffice Street. The construction project is scheduled to be complete in the summer of 2024.

This new expansion will provide a convenient place for patients and families to stay while receiving treatment at the hospital, and it will also provide muchneeded parking for patients and hospital staff. This expansion project will help Shriners Children’s Texas better fulfill the important mission of serving more children in more places with the most amazing care, anywhere.

THE TREMONT HOUSE

2300 and Mechanic St - Downtown

Construction workers tore down the rooftop bar in 2022. Project designers say the new make-over will have more space, with the ability to welcome up to 150 patrons.

David Watson, architect and interior designer with David Watson, Architect and Associates, worked with Werner Construction, a League City-based company composed of Galveston natives, tearing everything off the roof in fall 2022 preparation for the renovation.

The new Rooftop design allows added seating arrangements, a new counter bar equipped with TVs, and the ability to enclose part of the space off from the elements to be open year round & weather friendly. It is slated to be open early 2024

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT

Construction is underway for the 5-story, 120-room extended stay hotel, Residence Inn by Marriott. The hotel offers studio, one, and two-bedroom suites equipped with full-sized kitchens. Amenities include a pool, fitness center, meeting space and a spacious living/dining and bar area. The hotel is set to open in the 1st quarter o f2024.

GORDON FOOD SERVICE

45th Street and Stewart Ave

(Photo not actual Galveston Store)

• Size: approx. 20,000 sf

• Capital Investment: approx. $7.5 million

Gordon Food Service, the largest family-managed broadline food service distribution company in North America, has recently expanded into Texas. This grocery store concept is an efficiently laid out wholesale food service experience that is also open to the public. The stores are set up with large walk-in coolers for dairy, produce and meat products and will be equipped with tortilla, rotisserie and popcorn making rooms on-site.

PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON

THE COTTON EXCHANGE BUILDING

2102

Mechanic Street - Downtown

Developer Hadar Goldman has acquired the Cotton Exchange Building and Board of Trade Building, 2102 Mechanic St., with plans to convert it to a 21-apartment units with a penthouse.

• Contractor – Werner Construction

GALVESTON COLLEGE NEW HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION CENTER

4015 Avenue Q,

Galveston College’s new three-story, 64,000-square-foot Health Sciences Education Center saw construction begin in June 2022. Located on the main campus at Avenue Q and 39th, completion is projected for the fall of 2023. The new Center will house Galveston College’s Allied Health and Nursing programs, including its new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Total cost of the project is $31 million.

41st at Avenue U

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

Photo©Robert Mihovil/Mihovil Photography

2023 GEDP MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

6 Degrees Wealth

Jason Hardcastle www.6degreeswealth.com

American National Insurance Co.

Tim Walsh www.anico.com

AMX Encironmental - Houston

Karl Gray www.amxenvironmental.com

Bassett Family Interests

Keith Bassett

Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership

Brian Freedman www.bayareahouston.com

Beachtown Galveston Corporation

Tofigh Shirazi www.beachtowngalveston.com

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate

Gary Greene- Galveston

Edie Harrington www.galveston-intown-garygreene.com

BioHouston

Ann Tanabe www.biohouston.org

CenterPoint Energy

Jessica Sanford www.centerpointenergy.com

CenterPoint Energy-Stategic Business Growth and Development

Billy Hill www.centerpointenergy.com

Chrysalis BioTherapeutics, Inc.

Darrell H. Carney www.chrysbio.com

City of Galveston

Mayor, Craig Brown

Michele Hay

Brian Maxwell www.galvestontx.gov

Classic Auto Group Galveston

Howie Bentley www.classicgalveston.com

Coastal Solutions, Inc

Marie Robb www.coastalsolution.com

Coldwell Banker -TGRE

Tom Schwenk

Reid Nelson www.talktotgre.com

Creative Photography

Manny Chan www.mannychan.net

Elliot Electric

Jeff Elder

Anthony Pardue www.elliotelectric.com

Express Employment Professionals

Mark Conrad www.expresspros.com

Farmers Alloy Fabricating

Jason Farmer www.farmersalloy.com

Faust Haus

David C. Finklea www.fausthaus.us

Five & Two Marketing

Liz Rogers www.fiveandtwomarketing.com

Frost Bank

Stephen Maxwell www.frostbank.com

Gaido’s Seafood/Nick’s Kitchen & Beach Bar

Nick Gaido www.gaidos.com

Galveston Association of Realtors Lisa Lisinicchia www.thegalvestonMLS.com

Galveston College

Myles Shelton www.gc.edu

Galveston County www.galvestoncountytx.gov

Galveston Co. Navigation District No. 1

Dennis Byrd, Sr. www.galvestonnavigation.com

Galveston Economic Development Partnership

Keith Gray www.gedp.org

Galveston Historical Foundation

Dwayne Jones www.galvestonhistory.org

Galveston Hotel & Lodging Association

Marty Miles www.galvestonlodging.org

Galveston Independent School District

Matthew Neighbors www.gisd.org

Galveston Insurance Associates

Garry Kaufman www.gia-tx.com

Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees

Kimberly Danesi

Tony Lyle www.visitgalveston.org

Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce

Gina Spagnola

Steve Conner www.galvestonchamber.com

Galveston Restaurant Group

Johnny Smecca www.galvestonrestaurantgroup.com

Galveston Texas City Pilots

Capt. Mark Saunders

Erik Stramblad www.galvestonpilots.com

GB Tech, Inc

Gale E. Burkett www.gbtech.net

Gilbane Building Company

David Cooper www.gilbaneco.com

Great Scott Enterprises

Todd Scott www.greatscottenterprises.net

Gulf Copper Drydock & Rig Repair

Leonard Hale www.gulfcopper.com

Ham, Langston & Brezina LLP

William Ansell www.hlb-cpa.com

HomeTown Bank of Galveston

Jimmy Rasmussen www.hometown.bank

Immaculate Painting & Construction

Juan Carcaño

Jarrod Carr www.immaculatepaint.com

Industrial Material Corporation

Jayson Levy www.industrialmaterial.com

Institute for a Disaster Resilient Texas (IDRT), TAMUG

Samuel Brody www.idrt.tamug.edu

J.W. Kelso Company, Inc

John W. Kelso www.jwkelso.com

Joe Tramonte Realty, Inc

V. J. Tramonte www.tramonterealty.com

Kahala Development, LLC

Debbie Reinhart

Kempner Capital Management

Harris L. Kempner, Jr. www.kempnercapital.com

Kirby Advertising

Debbie Kirby

2023 GEDP MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

LUX Custom Homes

John Paul Listowski www.luxcustomhomesgalveston.com

M. J. Naschke Public Relations

Mary Jo Naschke www.mjnpr.com

Marmo Plaza

Jimmy McClure www.marmoplaza.com

Martin Midstream Partners, L.P.

Damon King www.mmlp.com

McCoy’s Building Supply

Jessica Walshak

Colton Meiman www.mccoys.com/stores/galveston-tx

Mihovil Photography

Robert J. Mihovil www.mihovil.com

Mills Shirley LLP

Fred D. Raschke www.millsshirley.com

Mitchell Family Corp

Joe Rozier www.mitchellfamilycorp.com

Moody Gardens Hotel,Spa & Convention Center

Leon Garrison www.moodygardens.com

Moody National Bank

Victor Pierson www.moodybank.com

North American Building Compliance Testing Association (NABCTA)

Lidija Bikova www.nabcta.org

Parr 2 LLC

John C. Bouse

PBK

Roy Montalbano pbk.com

Permanent Endowment Fund

Bert Bagley www.pergalveston.org

Port of Galveston

Rodger Rees www.portofgalveston.com

Prosperity Bank

Tom LaRue www.prospertiybankusa.com

Rider & Wilson

William Rider

Sand ‘n Sea Prosperities, LLC

Claire Reiswerg www.sandnsea.com

Scholes International Airport at Galveston

Michael Shahan www.galvestonairport.com

Sea Star Base Galveston

Michael LeBlanc www.ssbgalveston.org

Sealy & Smith Foundation

Doug Rogers www.sealy-smith-foundation.org

Sherwin-Williams Co.

Billy Joe Strawn www.sherwin-williams.com

Shriners Children’s Texas

Jennifer Anderson

Mark Hodges www.ShrinersTexas.org

Stephen G. Schultz, PC

Stephen G. Schulz www.greerherz.com

Stewart Title

David J. Norris www.stewart.com/galveston

Sullivan Brothers Family of Companies

Todd Sullivan www.sullbros.com

Teichman Group

Kelly Teichman www.teichmangroup.com

Terracon

Diana Tabor www.terracon.com/offices/league-city

Texas A&M University at Galveston Col. Michael Fossum www.tamug.edu

Texas Coast Hotels

Willis Gandhi www.txcoasthotels.com

Texas First Bank

Chris Doyle www.texasfirst.bank

Texas Gas Service

Arthur Thomas www.onegas.com

The Cannon

Alex Gras Hilary Agho www.thecannon.com

The Galveston County Daily News

Leonard Woolsey www.galvnews.com

The Grand 1894 Opera House Maureen Patton www.thegrand.com

The Tremont House

Jacque Stilwell www.thetremonthouse.com

Titan Technologies

Keith Palmer www.titantechnologies.com

Tolunay-Wong-Engineeers, Inc.

Cheryl Miller

Greg Copeland www.tweinc.com

University of Texas Medical Branch

Aaron LeMay Jochen Reiser www.utmb.edu

Vision Galveston

Christine Bryant www.visiongalveston.com

Werner Constuction Richard Reeves www.wernerconstructionllc.com

Winstead PC John Rutherford www.winstead.com

Zero-Six Consulting

Bill Coltzer www.z6consulting.com

DEVELOPER PROFILE ADVERTISING SPONSORS

The GEDP would like to express our sincere appreciation to the 2023 Developer Profile Sponsors. Your support and participation enable us to provide this very useful publication.

WHO IS THE GEDP AND HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED?

MISSION GROWTH JOIN BENEFITS

The Galveston Economic Development Partnership (GEDP) was created in 1999 by the Business and Community leaders of Galveston to support the expansion and diversification of Galveston’s Employment and Tax Bases.

The GEDP connects members, businesses and entities interested in exploring development opportunities in Galveston. GEDP tools and resources have been developed over the years to assist in site location, business retention, demographic and socio-economic data, financial resources, and a general overview of Galveston’s economic climate for due diligence and project development purposes.

Services of the GEDP include:

• Financial Resources

• Site Selection

• Permitting Assistance

• Demographic Information

• Incentive Programs

• Project Structuring

• Local Economic Climate Information

• Project Development Due Diligence

GEDP Members maximize participation through involvement with Task Forces, Sub-Committees, Webinars, Special Events and access to regional data, information and analysis. Working with our members and community partners, we help build stronger connections, better resources and innovative opportunities for Galveston’s businesses and community.

To learn more or to become engaged in the work of the GEDP – reach out to the staff of the GEDP | 409-770-0216 | www.gedp.org.

– IN APPRECIATION –

We extend our deepest appreciation to several individuals for their assistance in compiling this year’s Developer Profile magazine. Cathy Palmer - GEDP | Michele Hay - City of Galveston | Robert Mihovil - Mihovil Photography | Debbie Kirby - Kirby Advertising And a special thank-you to Annie Stasney our GEDP Student Intern.

And to all our partners, sponsors and others who contributed to the content of this year’s 2023 Developer Profile magazine.