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
Galveston’s Rainbow Crosswalk – Something That Lasts for Tom Schwenk.
“Removing the rainbow crosswalk should not be viewed as erasing or disrespecting the LGBTQ+ community. Quite the opposite—it offers a chance to replace a fading symbol with something truly lasting.” — Trey Click Anger found the rainbow first. Truth came later. The...
U.S.–Finland Icebreaker Pact Positions Galveston for Growth
“This isn’t just shipbuilding—it’s nation-building. And Galveston is now on the map.” A White House agreement to procure 11 U.S. Coast Guard Arctic Security Cutters—four built in Finland and seven in the United States—puts Galveston on the map as a polar‑shipbuilding...
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...
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Recent Civics Stories
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...
When 28.57% is a Majority: Galveston’s No-New-Revenue Risk
Why Galveston Can’t Afford This “No-New-Revenue” Rate In my interview with Mayor Craig Brown yesterday he warned that the no-new-revenue rate isn’t...
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...
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 $200 million project remains on budget and is still targeting substantial completion in late 2025, positioning Ball High students to move into their new campus for the 2026-27 school year.
Community Voices
★★★★★
“The new parks and walkways have truly transformed our neighborhood, making it more vibrant and accessible for everyone.”
Emily R., Galveston Resident
★★★★★
“Thanks to the recent urban development projects, our community feels safer and more connected than ever before.”
John M., Local Business Owner
★★★★★
“The improvements in public transport have made commuting so much easier, enhancing our daily lives significantly.”
Linda S., Daily Commuter
Upcoming Community Events
Monday December 8 – Saturday January 10
Holiday Winter Wonderland at Galveston Children's Museum
10$ Per Person
Experience Winter Wonderland at the Galveston Children’s Museum — a magical, kid-friendly holiday adventure designed for children 10 and under. Enjoy cozy themed zones, hands-on STEAM activities, pretend play, and snowy-inspired creativity, all included with general admission. Shop affordable stocking stuffers and stay tuned for special events like Santa visits and pop-up holiday programs.
2618 Broadway St. | Galveston
Monday December 8 – Saturday January 3
Holiday in The Gardens
Attractions Hours 10:00 am - 10:00 pm
Moody Gardens transforms into Holiday in the Gardens, where ICE LAND, sparkling light displays, and festive attractions create unforgettable holiday memories for all ages. Explore immersive themed experiences and seasonal traditions that blend Gulf Coast charm with magical winter wonder.
Moody Gardens | 1 Hope Blvd
Monday January 12 – Friday January 30
Galveston Restaurant Week
Weeks of January 12 - January 30
Galveston Restaurant Week(s) invites diners to explore the island’s vibrant culinary scene with prix-fixe brunch, lunch, and dinner menus offered at unbeatable prices. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy signature dishes, discover new favorites, and savor the diverse flavors that make Galveston a true dining destination.
Located at Participating Restaurants
Thursday January 15
Once Upon A Time: The Spaghetti Western Lecture by Jordan Tucker
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Join film music historian Jordan Tucker for a live piano lecture exploring the unforgettable soundtracks of classic Spaghetti Western films, including works by legendary composer Ennio Morricone. This engaging session examines the music of The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More, and Once Upon a Time in the West, while highlighting Morricone’s lasting influence on modern film composers.
The Bryan Museum | 1315 21st Street
January 16 – January 17
Yaga's Chili Quest, Beers & Cheers
January 16 -17
Head to Historic Downtown Galveston for Yaga’s Chili Quest & Beer Fest, featuring chili and beer tasting, live music, a 5K fun run, contests, vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. This red-hot weekend event returns, offering two days of flavor-packed fun and festive activities.
Galveston’s Historic Strand District
Friday January 16
Cirque Kalabanté
8:00 pm
Afrique en Cirque, created by Yamoussa Bangoura, brings the beauty and vitality of Guinean culture to the stage through gravity-defying acrobatics, human pyramids, and live Afro-Jazz music. This colorful, high-energy performance by Kalabanté Productions offers audiences an unforgettable journey into the artistry and spirit of young Africans.
The Grand 1894 Opera House | 2020 Postoffice St.
Saturday January 17
Art In Motion: Health & Wellness Expo
10:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Join Fitness on the Go for a dynamic Fitness & Wellness Expo featuring classes every 30 minutes, hydration bars, a recovery lounge, free health screenings, and a dedicated Kids Zone. Whether you’re refreshing your routine or exploring new wellness tools, this event offers movement, motivation, and inspiration for all ages.
