If you have any questions that are not answered here, we would love to hear from you! Contact Christine Bryant at [email protected]
Q: How did you determine the property use?
A: Build Galveston conducted a series of site studies to determine the best use for this property. Vision
Galveston, the parent organization to Build Galveston, conducted a comprehensive two-month engagement
process with the surrounding neighborhoods to understand their wishes and concerns.
Throughout our community conversations, two priorities consistently emerged:
1. The critical need for single-family workforce housing that allows essential workers to live in the
community they serve
2. Creating a meaningful community space that honors Dr. L.A. Morgan’s extraordinary legacy of
education, community service, and commitment to excellence
Both elements resonated deeply with residents and align with our mission to strengthen Galveston’s future
while honoring its past.
Q: What about the Juneteenth Museum?
A: As organizations committed to collaborative community development, we carefully examined multiple
potential uses for the property. Dr. Morgan’s impact on Galveston was profound— from his 40 years as
an educator, principal, and administrator (1934-1974) to his leadership during school integration and his
groundbreaking service as the first African-American on the Civil Service Commission.
We engaged in extensive public process, listening sessions, and solicited resident feedback. Our bid
reflects the community’s expressed desire for: -Single-family workforce housing that addresses a critical community need -A dedicated community space that celebrates Dr. Morgan’s contributions and continues his legacy
of education and community uplift
Should Build Galveston’s bid be accepted by GISD Trustees, we welcome the opportunity to meet with co
development partners, including developers pursuing a Juneteenth Museum.
Q: Who funded the project?
A: This transformative initiative is only possible through the generous support of committed local funders
who share our vision for Galveston’s future:
This effort is possible through the support of the Galveston Essential Workforce Housing Fund and The
Moody Foundation. The Fund was created specifically for Galveston with contribution from The Cynthia
and George Mitchell Foundation, Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund, the Ippolito Charitable Foundation and
the Sasser Family Fund. Build Galveston received additional support from The Moody Foundation in the
form of a line of credit to be used by the Build Galveston board of directors for land acquisition.
Their investment demonstrates the broad community support for addressing Galveston’s workforce housing
needs while honoring its cultural heritage.
Q: How much is Build Galveston’s bid?
A: While we’re not at liberty to discuss the specific amount at this time due to the ongoing process, we can
affirm that our bid represents a significant commitment to Galveston’s future.
Q: Why workforce housing?
A: Galveston faces a housing crisis that threatens our community’s economic and cultural vitality: -From 2010-2020, Galveston lost an estimated 775 families with children -More than 65% of island workers (approximately 21,255 people) commute from off-island
-Half of Galveston residents face housing cost burdens, making it difficult to afford other living
expenses
This housing shortage affects everyone—from our schools to our emergency services to our local businesses.
When teachers, police officers, firefighters, healthcare workers, and other essential employees can’t afford
to live in the community they serve, we all lose.
Q: How will the homes be built? What will they look like?
A: The homes will be built according to Green Galveston Guiding Principles, emphasizing sustainability,
resilience, and community character. Designed as single-family homes and townhomes, they will: -Architecturally blend with the neighborhood’s existing aesthetic -Complement Galveston’s distinctive coastal character -Incorporate energy-efficient and storm-resistant features -Create welcoming spaces for families to put down roots
The development will include thoughtful design elements that honor Dr. Morgan’s legacy and create a
sense of place that reflects his commitment to community.
Q: What will this mean for Galveston?
A: This project represents more than just housing—it’s about Galveston’s future, and Galveston at its best.
By creating homes for our workforce while honoring Dr. Morgan’s legacy, we’re: -Strengthening our schools by enabling teachers to live in the community -Enhancing public safety by housing first responders on the island -Supporting local businesses by increasing year-round residents -Preserving our cultural heritage and telling important stories -Building a more resilient, inclusive, and vibrant Galveston
As Dr. Morgan said when asked about his most famous student: “They (are) all famous. At least they (are)
to me.” This project embodies that same spirit—creating a community where everyone has the opportunity
to thrive.
