The transit terminal takes up about half a block on Galveston’s Historic Strand at 25th Street. It will serve as a hub for Island Transit, Galveston’s bus system.
The city is also working to restore the trolley line that was damaged in Hurricane Ike, and it’s expected to reopen in about a year and a half. Galveston city spokeswoman Kala McCain says passengers will then be able to transfer from the bus to the trolley.
“This will allow for the movement of individuals island-wide in a way that is not currently offered,” says McCain.
McCain adds the terminal will serve both people who work on the island as well as cruise ship passengers.
“Whenever you come off of the cruise ship, you’re right across from the railroad museum, there’s the terminal,” says McCain. “So it’s much more easily accessible.”
The downtown terminal also has additional parking, along with retail space. It cost $6.3 million, with much of the money coming from the federal government.
Grand opening ceremonies for the Downtown Transit Terminal are set for February 24.