Galveston Island is ready to greet visitors once again after Hurricane Beryl swept through the area on July 8, bringing destructive winds and rain.
Power has been restored to much of the island, and most local shops, attractions, and restaurants are open and eager to welcome guests.
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“We are fortunate that our business districts made a relatively quick bounce back,” said Galveston Mayor Craig Brown in a press release. “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.”
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Jason Hardcastle, Galveston Park Board Chair, expressed gratitude for the efforts of businesses and residents in restoring infrastructure. He also praised the Galveston Beach Patrol and Coastal Zone Management.
“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.”
Tony Lyle, Executive Director of Visit Galveston, emphasized the importance of tourism to the island’s economy.
“Tourism is an important economic driver for Galveston Island. 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.”
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Beaches and amenities along the seawall are open to the public. Dellanera RV Park on the island’s West End is open. However, 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 to expedite clean-up efforts.
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, on Saturday, July 20, in the Historic Downtown District from 6-9 p.m.