Galveston’s West End could soon look unique as developers move forward with large-scale projects—including a $540 million hotel and condo development—and long-troubled properties prepare for possible demolition.
Major transformations are on the horizon for the West End of the island, as a series of projects, including luxury hotels and long-awaited demolitions, are set to redefine the landscape of Galveston's renowned Seawall.
On Thursday, the developers of Sachs on the Seawall, situated at 10302 Seawall Blvd., achieved a major victory as the city council approved zoning changes to facilitate mixed-use development.
The $540 million development will include a 216-room Marriott Renaissance Hotel and two 11-story condominium towers, totaling 156 units. Additionally, the project will include two apartment buildings with a total of 236 units and an impressive 70,000 square feet dedicated to retail and dining options.
Sachs on the Seawall is set to make an outstanding impact by dedicating 59 units for local workforce housing and another 59 units for J-1 visa workers, who play a crucial role in supporting the seasonal hospitality industry throughout Galveston. Regardless of any changes in property ownership, city officials have confirmed that they will continue to enforce the existing housing requirements.
Developer Mohamed Eldawy, representing Royal Crown Enterprise LLC, announced that anticipated tenants for the project include La Madeleine French Bistro and Floyd’s Cajun Seafood. The project, once finalized, is expected to bring in an impressive $8.32 million each year in property tax revenue while also generating over 475 new jobs.
Eldawy has announced intentions to establish an environmental preserve at the northern end of the property, aimed at safeguarding bird migration routes and the local coyote population, often referred to as “ghost wolves.” The plan includes provisions for public access to this area.
Relatedly, developers navigated height concerns raised by Scholes International Airport, successfully obtaining Federal Aviation Administration approval for structures reaching up to 150 feet above sea level, equivalent to approximately 11 stories. Eldawy has yet to respond to the timeline for the construction project. Following Thursday's approval, Eldawy now has a two-year window to obtain a building permit.
Parallel to this, Solarus, a West End project, has taken a more modest but no less daring approach. In response to city concerns, developer Galen Dru Kahlenberg has revised his ambitious plans for a 10-story high-rise. He will now proceed with a more modest five-story, 46-unit condominium project located at 10717 San Luis Pass Road. The pricing for the units is set to range from $750,000 to $1.1 million, with the rooftop boasting amenities such as pickleball and basketball courts, miniature golf, and a lounge area.
Interestingly, at 8008 Seawall Blvd., the installation of cyclone fencing around the long-troubled Antigua Apartments has sparked speculation about the possibility of imminent demolition. City officials reported that the property owners have yet to submit applications for demolition permits, even though almost all tenants have already moved out.
Constructed in 1961, the 177-unit property faced numerous code violations last year and was put on the market in December, described as a “redevelopment-ready site.” Speculation surrounding potential new ownership continues to circulate, yet it remains unverified.
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