The Texan port aims to develop 357 acres of waterfront areas next to the shipyard acquired by Davie Defense, with new spaces for logistics, ro-ro and LNG bunkering
Galveston – The Port of Galveston has announced a $40 million investment plan to develop 357 acres of land located on Pelican Island, an area considered by port authorities to be one of the last large, underutilized deep-water port sites still available in the State of Texas.
The initiative comes a few months after Davie Defense’s billion-dollar acquisition of the Gulf Copper shipyard and repair center. According to the port, approximately 100 acres of the project area directly border the recently acquired industrial complex, creating significant opportunities for logistical and industrial integration.
The plan includes the construction of new infrastructure to support maritime activities, including areas dedicated to Ro-Ro cargo handling, potential facilities for liquefied natural gas (LNG) bunkering intended for cruise ships and cargo vessels, as well as interventions on roadways to improve the circulation of heavy vehicles within the port.
According to the port’s general director, Rodger Rees, the project will provide strategic logistical support to future shipyard activities, helping to reduce bottlenecks in supply chains and fostering the creation of new jobs in the area.
Financing is expected to be secured through a combination of the port’s operating reserves and contributions from state and federal programs. Concurrently, port authorities have highlighted the need to accelerate the debate on the future of the Seawolf / 51st Street Bridge, considered a key infrastructure to support the area’s growth and improve road and rail connections.
The project will be among the main topics of the next Galveston Port Board meeting, scheduled for June 23, during which infrastructure priorities and possible funding sources to support the future expansion of the Texan port will be discussed.
