Commission extends right-of-way license for Bishop's Palace roof work through March 2026

The Galveston Planning Commission approved a license-to-use request (25P045) to allow use of the public right of way on 14th Street as a loading zone during roof repairs at Bishop's Palace and voted to extend the license's expiration to March 31, 2026.

Donna, planning staff, said 18 public notices were sent and that public works asked the applicant to pay for safety devices used during construction. Staff noted the property sits within the East End Historic District and that the Landmark Commission reviewed and recommended approval at its Nov. 17 meeting. The temporary license previously associated with the project expired on June 13, 2025; staff said this action would bring the project back into compliance under a new license.

Commissioners asked how the closure would be depicted in property records and whether barricades would be removed during nonworking hours; staff said the pedestrian warning signs and limited sidewalk closures would be implemented where the exhibit showed closures, and that traffic-control devices and associated fees were included in the staff recommendation. Commissioners also asked whether the commission could grant a longer extension; staff confirmed the commission has the authority to extend the license and that fees were expected to be paid as part of the approval.

No members of the public spoke on the item. The motion to approve staff recommendations and extend the expiration to March 31, 2026 passed unanimously. The action includes the condition that the applicant work with Public Works to provide and pay for traffic-control/safety devices during the scope of construction. The commission also noted the applicant may seek further extensions if needed and that staff will track compliance.