The Port of Galveston is moving forward with a $106 million, multi-year upgrade of its West Port Cargo Complex, with major construction elements scheduled for completion in 2026. The project represents the port’s first large-scale investment in its waterfront cargo infrastructure in decades.
The phased improvements began in 2024 and are funded through a combination of a state grant and port operating reserves, much of which are supported by cruise-related revenues. The work is focused on modernizing aging docks, expanding cargo-handling acreage and extending berthing space to support increased cargo volumes.
Located on Galveston Harbor, one of the nation’s busiest cargo waterways, the West Port Cargo Complex handles more than 3 million tons of general and breakbulk cargo each year, including roll-on/roll-off cargo and large wind turbine components. Hundreds of cargo vessels call at the complex annually, supporting jobs and economic activity in the region.
At Pier 38/39, the port has constructed a closure structure to enclose an outdated slip, which will double as a new berth beginning in 2026. Filling of the slip with dredged material is scheduled to begin in January and be completed within the year, followed by a required settling period before the area can be used for cargo laydown.
Work at Pier 40/41 includes construction of another slip closure structure and a berth extension. That project, funded by a state grant and port reserves, is expected to have the closure structure and berth infrastructure completed by mid-2026. Filling of the slip will occur during a future phase.
In addition to the slip closures, rehabilitation work will allow the port to create a continuous 1,434'-long berth extending from Pier 38/39 to Pier 40/41. The berth is designed to accommodate vessels with drafts of up to 46' and is scheduled to be commissioned in the second half of 2026.
At Pier 41, six acres have been repaved to repair failed subgrade and concrete paving, restoring the area for full cargo-handling use. Separately, the port has demolished a decades-old, decommissioned grain elevator to create additional cargo-handling acreage. Portions of the berth and site are already being used by cargo ships, with full clearance of the area planned for 2026.
Port officials said the improvements will enable tenants to move more cargo through the complex, expand waterfront employment and position the Port of Galveston for long-term growth in its cargo business.
"This is the first time in decades that the port has made an investment of this size in our docks. These master plan projects demonstrate our commitment to a diversified revenue stream and jobs growth," said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO.
"The investment puts us on the cusp of a new era of cargo growth for Galveston," Rees continued. "For the first time in decades, the Galveston Wharves and its partners can develop our cargo business to its full potential, generating hundreds of new jobs and tremendous economic growth for the region."
