A new bus route, The Splash, now connects Galveston and Texas City with hourly service six days a week. The Gulf Coast Transit District and Galveston Island Transit partnered on the project, offering $1 fares and direct transfers to improve regional mobility.
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A new bus line connecting Galveston to the mainland began operations last Monday, providing riders with a direct, affordable transportation option between the island and Texas City, according to the Gulf Coast Transit District.
The Splash route operates on an hourly schedule from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Saturday. The route links the Gulf Coast Transit District terminal located at 1415 33rd St. N. in Texas City with the Galveston Island Transit terminal situated at 2418 Strand St. on the island. According to Timmy Sykes, a spokesperson for the Gulf Coast Transit District, the collaboration with Galveston Island Transit aims to tackle a persistent regional transit gap. “There was a significant demand for transportation services linking the mainland to Galveston,” he stated.
Up to this point, individuals commuting between these locations have relied mainly on the Park and Ride service, a collaboration between UTMB and the Gulf Coast Transit District. The route facilitates passenger transport between League City, Texas City, and Galveston, though it often requires an indirect route. Sykes stated that The Splash provides a more straightforward and effective alternative. “At times, they would need to travel all the way to League City and then return to Texas City before the [Park and Ride] returns to the terminal,” Sykes noted. “That is no longer a requirement for them.”
Galveston Island Transit’s website states that fares for The Splash are $1 for most riders, while seniors over 65, individuals with disabilities, and students can ride for just 50 cents. Transfers to connecting Island Transit buses are free when part of a scheduled micro-transfer trip. “When you take the bus from Texas City to Galveston, if you are boarding a connector bus in Galveston, we provide you with a transfer, which allows you to reach your final destination,” Sykes stated.
Sykes expressed optimism about the rapid growth of ridership, estimating that once the community becomes acquainted with the route, daily usage could exceed 150 passengers. Travelers can simply arrive at either terminal, pay the fare, and board without scheduling a pickup.
“I aim to ensure that we deliver a public transportation service that is safe, economical, and affordable, enabling people to reach their destinations safely and punctually,” Sykes stated.
The district officials announced that they will closely monitor demand and performance as they integrate the Splash into regional transit planning.
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