Galveston's Urban Evolution
Shaping the Future of Our City
Explore the latest developments in urban planning and community projects that are transforming Galveston into a vibrant, sustainable city.
Latest Civic News
Galveston County Voters Approve $110M for Roads and Flood Control — But Reject Government Facility Upgrades
In the May 3, 2025, election, Galveston County voters approved nearly $110 million for roads and flood control but rejected a proposal for government facility upgrades. Proposition A, which allocated $74.1 million for roads and bridges, and Proposition C, which earmarked $36 million for flood control, were both approved. However, Proposition B, which proposed $75.8 million for government facility improvements, was narrowly defeated. This reflects a preference for investing in infrastructure and disaster preparedness over administrative expansion.
Written By: David Landriault
Mayor Craig Brown Part 1 of 6: Galveston 2035: Foundations, Futures, and Fight for Resilience: A Candid Interview with Mayor Craig Brown
In Part 1 of our exclusive six-part series, The 1839 founder David Landriault sits down with Mayor Craig Brown for an unfiltered conversation about Galveston’s next decade. From bold economic growth and cultural diversity to the harsh realities of flooding and infrastructure costs, Mayor Brown offers both hope and hard truths. This is not just a plan—it’s a call to action for every resident who believes in Galveston’s future.
Why I Believe in Galveston: A “Realistic” Love Letter to the Island
This isn’t a postcard. It’s just a personal take on a place I’ve spent my life coming back to.
Galveston is complicated, beautiful, stubborn, and full of soul. In this piece, I’m sharing a few of the reasons why my wife Christy and I believe in this island—and why we built The 1839 to tell its stories the way they deserve to be told.
Written By: David Landriault, Co-Founder of 1839
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Recent Civic Stories
Galveston County Voters Approve $110M for Roads and Flood Control — But Reject Government Facility Upgrades
In the May 3, 2025, election, Galveston County voters approved nearly $110 million for roads and flood control but rejected a proposal for government facility upgrades. Proposition A, which allocated $74.1 million for roads and bridges, and Proposition C, which earmarked $36 million for flood control, were both approved. However, Proposition B, which proposed $75.8 million for government facility improvements, was narrowly defeated. This reflects a preference for investing in infrastructure and disaster preparedness over administrative expansion.
Written By: David Landriault
Mayor Craig Brown Part 1 of 6: Galveston 2035: Foundations, Futures, and Fight for Resilience: A Candid Interview with Mayor Craig Brown
In Part 1 of our exclusive six-part series, The 1839 founder David Landriault sits down with Mayor Craig Brown for an unfiltered conversation about Galveston’s next decade. From bold economic growth and cultural diversity to the harsh realities of flooding and infrastructure costs, Mayor Brown offers both hope and hard truths. This is not just a plan—it’s a call to action for every resident who believes in Galveston’s future.
Why I Believe in Galveston: A “Realistic” Love Letter to the Island
This isn’t a postcard. It’s just a personal take on a place I’ve spent my life coming back to.
Galveston is complicated, beautiful, stubborn, and full of soul. In this piece, I’m sharing a few of the reasons why my wife Christy and I believe in this island—and why we built The 1839 to tell its stories the way they deserve to be told.
Written By: David Landriault, Co-Founder of 1839
The Rhythm of the Island: How Galveston Businesses (and Locals) Can Thrive Year-Round
There’s a rhythm to life on Galveston Island. If you live here long enough, you can feel it.
Once you’re in sync, everything changes. In The Rhythm of the Island, I reflect on how embracing this unique flow has helped me—and the business owners I work with—not just survive the off-season, but thrive in it.
Written By: Teresa Wagonseller, CPA, Fractional CFO, and proud member of The 39ers.
What Local Issues and Civic Stories Should We Cover
Your perspective is vital to understanding Galveston’s civic life. Help The 1839 uncover the important stories that deserve more attention.
Upcoming Community Events
Historic Homes Tour
May 4–5 and 11–12, 2024, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Step back into Galveston’s golden age and wander through lovingly preserved cottages, stately Victorians, and hidden architectural gems—private residences that open their doors to the public only once a year. One ticket covers both weekends, so you can explore at your own pace.
Details, featured homes, and tickets are all on the Galveston Historical Foundation’s site
La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival
May 2-3, 2025
A two-day mash-up of Gulf-coast surf culture and live music, with concerts on Beach Central and a longboard contest at 21st & Seawall.
Family-friendly by day, full concert vibes by night.
Details and tickets are on the event page
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
May 3, 2025 (12 p.m.–9 p.m.)
LULAC Council 151 turns the Old Galveston County Courthouse lawn into a day-long street party with live bands, folklórico dancing, kids’ activities, food vendors, and raffle prizes, all supporting local scholarships.
Check Link for the full schedule.
Yaga’s Wild Game & BBQ Cook-Off
May 9-10, 2025
Pit-masters and backyard chefs converge at Moody Gardens to smoke wild game and classic Texas barbecue—with tasting wristbands, live music, and proceeds benefiting children’s charities across the county. Team sign-ups and spectator info are on the Yaga’s Children’s Fund Site.
Click for Details
Coming Soon - Updates on Ball High Construction
Construction Highlight
Client
Galveston INdependent School District
Date
TBA
Status
Ongoing
Project Overview
In this coming construction check-in, you’ll hear from Billy Coltzer, AIA—principal of Galveston’s Zero/Six (Z6) Consulting, the team overseeing the building-envelope commissioning. Coltzer notes that brick veneer is already climbing the north academic wing, the exterior sheathing is nearly closed in, and crews have begun setting window frames while mechanical-electrical-plumbing rough-ins race ahead inside. Foundations for the natatorium and the south academic wing were poured earlier this spring, with structural steel scheduled to go vertical in May. The $200 million project remains on budget and is still targeting substantial completion in late 2025, positioning Ball High students to move into their new campus for the 2026-27 school year.
Community Voices
★★★★★
“The new parks and walkways have truly transformed our neighborhood, making it more vibrant and accessible for everyone.”
Emily R., Galveston Resident
★★★★★
“Thanks to the recent urban development projects, our community feels safer and more connected than ever before.”
John M., Local Business Owner
★★★★★
“The improvements in public transport have made commuting so much easier, enhancing our daily lives significantly.”
Linda S., Daily Commuter
