Galveston's Urban Evolution
Shaping the Future of Our City
Learn about the latest Civics News in Galveston here! Explore the latest developments in urban planning and community projects that are transforming Galveston into a vibrant, sustainable city.
Latest Civics News
Journalism with Courage, Integrity, and Pride
“It is not enough to report on Galveston. We must champion it. We must demand the kind of journalism that strengthens people rather than pacifies them.” Journalism has power—or it has nothing at all. For David Landriault, Founder of The 1839, the calling is not to sit...
Galveston Faces a Breaking Point After Council Minority Exerts Control in Tax Vote Deadlock
“Three votes held Galveston’s future hostage, leaving the majority—and the city—powerless.” Galveston’s tax vote deadlock wasn’t about $6 a month—it was about whether the city would protect its reserves, support its employees, and prepare for future storms. Instead,...
When 28.57% is a Majority: Galveston’s No-New-Revenue Risk
Galveston’s debate over the “no-new-revenue” tax rate isn’t about saving pennies—it’s about protecting people. For less than $75 a year, the city can fund firefighters, police, drainage, and storm reserves. Without it, essential services erode and just 28.57% of council can block the majority.
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Recent Civics Stories
Mayor Craig Brown Part 3 of 6: The Future in Motion: Galveston’s Infrastructure and Livability
Mayor Craig Brown shares how Galveston can grow smarter: tackling traffic with new flyovers, reimagining parks and greenways, and shaping a port...
Mayor Craig Brown Part 2 of 6: Managing Success: Galveston’s Economy, Tourism, and the Legacy of Unity
Mayor Craig Brown shares his vision for Galveston’s future, emphasizing unity, sustainable tourism, small-business growth, and balanced economic...
David Finklea Editorial
With 64% of revenue tied to cruise ships, Galveston’s port is betting big on one industry. Guest columnist, and Council Member for District 2, David...
Brian Maxwell: Leading Galveston Into the Next Decade
When you think about the person steering Galveston’s day-to-day operations and planning for its future, you might picture closed-door meetings and...
David Squared: Galveston Politics, Unfiltered – Episode 1
A monthly podcast hosted by David Landriault and David Finklea—two longtime civics voices with deep roots in Galveston’s business, political, and...
A Night for the Island: Honoring Mike Dean and Stepping Into a New Chapter
Galveston Community Enrichment Award An unforgettable evening in Galveston celebrated the legacy of local icon Mike Dean while welcoming a new wave...
What Local Issues and Civics Stories Should We Cover
Your perspective is vital to understanding Galveston’s civics life. Help The 1839 uncover the important stories that deserve more attention.
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
Upcoming Community Events
Thursday, Nov. 6 – Sunday, Nov. 9
Lone Star Rally
Four days of rumbling engines, custom bikes & cars, live music from over 40 bands, vendors, contests & nonstop action as thousands roll into Galveston for the state’s biggest motorcycle rally.
Along Seawall | 201 19th St, Galveston, TX 77550
Saturday, November 1st
Revival! - Krewe of Saints All Saints Day Party
Join the Krewe of Saints for the All Saints Day Party. A lively night of brass band beats, brews from Saint Arnold Brewery, and divine debauchery. 21+ event with complimentary drinks and food truck eats.
The Depot Market - 3304 Market Square St. Galveston
Sunday, November 2nd
Mutts Gone Nuts - Unleashed!
Experience Mutts Gone Nuts – Unleashed! A hilarious, family-friendly dog comedy show featuring world-class canines, rescue pups, and jaw-dropping tricks that will leave you howling for more.
2020 Postoffice St. Galveston
Wednesday, November 5th – 12th
Fall Volunteer Week
Join Volunteer Work Week at the Galveston Naval Museum, Nov 5–12, 2025! Help restore the historic WWII vessels USS Cavalla and USS Stewart while preserving U.S. Navy history.
Galveston Naval Museum | 100 Seawolf Parkway
Thursday, November 13th
Family Free Night at Galveston Children's Museum
4:00 pm - 7:00pm
Enjoy a free family night of hands-on fun, laughter, and exploration—an unforgettable evening where memories are made and admission is on the house!
Galveston Children's Museum | 2618 Broadway St.
Thursday, November 13 – Saturday, November 15
The Old Quarter Songwriter Festival
Experience the Old Quarter Songwriter Festival in Historic Downtown Galveston. 30 artists, 4 intimate listening venues, and 3 unforgettable days of live music. Check in and shop merch at Marmo Plaza. Limited VIP, weekend, and single-day passes available!
Downtown Galveston | 2121 Market Street
November 14th – December 23
The Polar Express Train Ride
The adventure begins as the train sets off on a round-trip journey to the North Pole, brought to life by a talented cast of performers. Set to the beloved motion picture soundtrack, passengers will experience the wonder of The Polar Express™ story on a one-hour trip to meet Santa himself.
Galveston Railroad Museum
Saturday, November 15
Handmade Holiday
2:00 pm - 4:00pm
Celebrate the season with a hands-on, family-friendly ornament workshop at the Galveston Art Center! Join GAC teaching artists for a creative experience where participants of all ages can design and craft their own unique handmade ornaments. With a variety of materials and styles to choose from, everyone will leave with personalized keepsakes perfect for holiday decorating or gifting.
Galveston Arts Center | 2127 Strand
Tuesday, November 11th
Veterans Day Ceremony
9:00 am - 12:00pm
Honor our heroes this Veterans Day at the Galveston Naval Museum. Join a free community tribute featuring guided tours, a remembrance ceremony with the Texas A&M University Choir, guest speakers, wreath-laying, and post-ceremony refreshments at the Tidal Taps Drink Cart.
Galveston Naval Museum | 100 Seawolf Pkwy
November 22 – January 3
Holiday in The Gardens
November 22 - January 3
Experience the magic of the season at Holiday in The Gardens (Nov 22 to Jan 3) at Moody Gardens in Galveston transform into a glittering wonderland with millions of lights, ice sculptures, festive shows, and family fun for all ages.
Moody Gardens
Nov. 14 – Dec. 6
Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Galveston Christmas Show
November 14 - December 6
A holiday favorite with a Galveston twist! Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Galveston Christmas Show reimagines Dickens’ classic with laugh-out-loud humor, music, and island flair. Join Scrooge, the ghosts, and Tiny Tim for a festive, family-friendly performance at The Grand 1894 Opera House.
The Grand 1894 Opera House
November 23
Grand Galvez Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch
November 23
Celebrate Thanksgiving in style at the Grand Galvez, where elegance meets indulgence. Enjoy a lavish buffet brunch featuring Gulf Coast seafood, Lone Star favorites, and gourmet carving stations. Reservations required.
Call 409-765-7721 to Reserve
November 27
Moody Ballroom Thanksgiving Brunch
November 27 | 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Enjoy a festive Thanksgiving Brunch in the Moody Gardens Ballroom, featuring a lavish buffet of traditional favorites—all served in a beautiful, family-friendly holiday setting overlooking the pyramids.
Moody Gardens Ballroom
November 27
Thanksgiving Brunch at The San Luis Resort
November 27 | 11 AM – 3 PM
Give thanks in style with a Thanksgiving Brunch at The San Luis Resort, featuring an elevated buffet of traditional favorites, fresh seafood, gourmet carving stations, and decadent desserts—all in the resort’s elegant Grand Ballroom overlooking the Gulf.
The San Luis Resort
November 28 – 29
The 4th Annual Nutcracker Market
Nov. 28: 3 PM – 7 PM | Nov. 29: 9 AM - 4 PM
Kick off your holiday shopping at the 4th Annual Nutcracker Market inside the Moody Gardens Convention Center. Browse over 100 local boutiques and artisans offering festive décor, fashion, food, and gifts—plus seasonal entertainment and photo ops to make it a full weekend of cheer.
Moody Gardens Convention Center
November 29
Holiday at Hendley Green
November 29 | 4 - 5 PM
Join the Galveston Historical Foundation for Holiday at Hendley Green, a downtown celebration kicking off the holiday season. Enjoy live performances, shopping, crafts, and family-friendly activities—all set against the charm of Galveston’s historic Strand District.
