City Council Approves Major Changes to Beach Access Plan

During a recent city council meeting in Galveston, members unanimously approved a motion to reconsider and subsequently adopt amendments to the city’s beach access and dune protection plan. The amendments specifically address beachfront construction extensions and renewals, as well as parking regulations at key beach access points, including Palisade Palm, Stewart Beach, and Seawall Beach Urban Park.

Councilman Bob Brown initiated the motion to approve the ordinance, which aims to restore the special use area to its previous length of 2,640 feet while eliminating proposed relocations at Stewart Beach Pocket Park 1 and Pocket Park 3. The changes are designed to rectify parking shortages on the east end of the beach and ensure compliance with the Texas Administrative Code regarding beach access requirements.

The council emphasized the importance of clarifying the roles of the General Land Office (GLO) and the city in managing beach access, highlighting a need for improved processes moving forward. The council's decision reflects a commitment to enhancing beach access while adhering to regulatory standards. Staff will now prepare and submit the necessary plans and documents to the GLO to implement the amended beach access plan promptly.