Texas officials say more than 93,000 cubic yards of sand have been added to 1,000 feet of West Galveston Beach as part of a joint erosion-control project led by the Texas General Land Office, the City of Galveston, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
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State officials have reported that over 93,308 cubic yards of beach-quality sand have been deposited along 1,000 linear feet of West Galveston Beach as of November 18. This marks an important milestone in the ongoing erosion-control project being undertaken by the Texas General Land Office, the City of Galveston, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
This initiative is a component of the Continuing Authorities Program Section 204 (CAP 204) West Galveston Beach Nourishment Project, which focuses on the restoration of areas along the island’s swiftly eroding shoreline. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is managing the construction project, with Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company acting as the contracting partner.
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., stated that the advancements demonstrate both the need for environmental action and a personal dedication to the cause. “For over ten years, Galveston Island was where I called home.” “Protecting our stunning shorelines is a cause that I hold close to my heart,” Buckingham expressed. She stated that the placement of over 93,000 cubic yards of sand “represents a major victory in the GLO’s efforts to address encroaching erosion and strengthen the Texas coast against damage from tropical storms and hurricanes.”
In June 2025, the City of Galveston sought federal assistance to address the escalating erosion on the island’s west end, which increased momentum for the project. USACE initiated a feasibility study to assess long-term solutions and determine whether the project aligned with federal interest criteria.
The research explored environmental effects, formulated restoration options, and provided cost and scope estimates. Upon completing the study, USACE developed comprehensive project designs and managed federal permitting processes, paving the way for construction and sand placement.
Officials at both the local and state levels emphasize that beach nourishment plays a crucial role in safeguarding Galveston’s natural and economic assets, particularly amid increasing storm activity and rising sea levels that are altering the Texas coastline. The CAP 204 project aims to deliver recreational advantages while also mitigating storm damage for surrounding communities.
Further updates will be provided as construction progresses and subsequent phases move forward.
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The Gulf Coast Protection District has approved contracts with Jacobs and HDR to begin early design work on the central gates and protective dunes for the massive “Ike Dike” hurricane-barrier system at the mouth of Galveston Bay.
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The Port of Galveston expects to approach 4 million cruise passengers and more than 445 sailings in 2026, driven by larger vessels, a new terminal, and continued industry expansion. Port leaders say the growth is vital to funding operations because the port receives no tax dollars.

Texas A&M University at Galveston received a $300,000 maritime endowment from the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees, which will fund annual scholarships and prompt university leaders to consider new academic programs to support the region’s growing shipbuilding sector.