Statement of Significance (as of designation - May 11, 1976):
A business district that developed from the port activities, creating a group of important 19th-century commercial structures.

Condition:
The properties within the Strand Historic District are protected through a local historic district designation. Since the last report, numerous properties have been rehabilitated in conformance with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards and the Design Standards for Historic Properties in Galveston. There are still a few buildings that need rehabilitation but the downtown is experiencing a resurgence in development of properties. Through continued compliance efforts regarding maintenance, as well as local historic review board control of alterations, the Strand Historic District is in good condition and does not have a current threat.

The infrastructure improvements to the Strand District, through the Livable Communities Program, have been completed since the last report. This includes local way-finding signage, lighting, benches, trash surrounds, trolley stations, and bicycle racks. As noted in the previous report, a transit center is proposed within the district but is still in the planning phase. This project will be partially funded through federal grants. Therefore, the design will receive Section 106 review, as well as local design review, and should not affect the integrity of the district. The entire area of Historic Downtown Galveston, including the Strand Historic District, will be surveyed in the summer of 2006. The project, which will update survey data that is 20 years old, is funded through a Certified Local Government grant and the city of Galveston.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
The city of Galveston, with its partner Galveston Historical Foundation, will continue to provide assistance to property owners and potential developers within the Strand District to preserve and protect the historic resources. Continued grant assistance through the National Park Service, as well as other state and federal funding mechanisms, is required to minimize threats to this district.