Galveston Island is Ready to Greet Visitors

Galveston Island is poised to welcome visitors after Hurricane Beryl brought destructive wind and rain across the area on July 8. Power has been restored to much of the island and most local shops, attractions and restaurants are open and eager to greet guests.

"We are fortunate that our business districts made a relatively quick bounce back," Galveston Mayor Craig Brown said. "I think it really speaks to the resiliency of our community that business owners, residents and non-profits worked together to help each other during the aftermath of this storm. That is the essence of the Galveston Island community."

"We thank our businesses and residents for working to restore our infrastructure. I also want to recognize Galveston Beach Patrol and Coastal Zone Management, who were ensuring our beaches were safe for our citizens and tourists," added Jason Hardcastle, Galveston Park Board Chair. "These men and women worked before, during and after the storm moving lifeguard towers and maintaining watch over possible storm surges to protect citizens and visitors. Now we invite everyone to come and enjoy our beaches and all Galveston Island has to offer once again."

"Tourism is an important economic driver for Galveston Island," Visit Galveston Executive Director Tony Lyle said. "The industry supports one in three jobs here. And summer is the peak season for many local businesses to generate revenue. We encourage visitors to enjoy what the island has to offer and support the local community."

Beaches and amenities along the seawall are open to the public. Dellanera RV Park on the island's West End is open. Amenities at Galveston's beach parks, Stewart Beach and East Beach remain temporarily closed. Some beaches along the West End and in Jamaica Beach are closed to vehicular traffic in order to expedite clean-up efforts there.

Family attractions including Moody Gardens, the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Schlitterbahn Waterpark are open. The city will host the popular community event, Artwalk, Saturday, July 20, in the Historic Downtown District from 6-9 p.m.