GALVESTON, Texas – After years of planning, the Battleship Texas Foundation is nearing final agreements with both Landry’s Inc. and the Port of Galveston to dock the historic USS Texas permanently at Pier 21.

Tony Gregory, President/CEO of the Battleship Texas Foundation, announced Thursday that the Foundation is approximately 60 days away from signing contracts with both parties. Landry’s operates several attractions adjacent to Pier 21, including the Harbor House Hotel and Willie G’s Seafood & Steaks. If finalized, the agreements would provide a long-term home for the deteriorating but iconic 110-year-old battleship following recent restoration work.

Mark Ashwell, Director of Business Development at Gulf Copper Dry Dock & Rig Repair, where restoration on the USS Texas began in September 2022 stated, “This will be a great enhancement for Galveston City and its people, as it will keep the iconic battleship in Texas and improve the overall tourist experience on the island.

The Battleship Texas will allow people from all over the country to tour the battleship to feel nostalgic and see the once state-of-the-art technology and engineering marvel of the only remaining World War I Dreadnought.”

Gregory noted that the Foundation would be financially responsible for the maintenance of the battleship under the proposed contracts. He expects total operating costs to be significant but declined to cite specific figures, as the Foundation relies predominantly on donations.

Mayor Craig Brown confirmed the city’s support for docking the floating museum in Galveston to augment its lineup of attractions. However, details are still being discussed before any binding pact is made.

The USS Texas is the last remaining combat veteran of World War I and served in both World Wars, escorting convoys across the Atlantic and providing fire support in Pacific battles. After nearly 60 years of maintenance by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, the Texas Legislature granted operational control to the Battleship Texas Foundation in 2019, along with $35 million in repair funds.

Structural repairs and waterproofing foam recently cut water intrusion from 2,000 gallons per minute to just 50, greatly extending the ship’s life. Gregory estimated a 90% chance the battleship will find its permanent home in Galveston. Final agreements are expected within two months, ending years of uncertainty for the deteriorating historic warship.