The New Year is upon us and there’s a lot to look forward to in 2023. The City of Galveston wants residents and visitors to have a safe and enjoyable New Year’s weekend on the island. There are a few things for you to know as we head into this weekend.

CITY HALL 

The City of Galveston will be closed on Monday, January 2 in observation of New Year’s Day. This includes City Hall, the public works building, sanitation services and the recreation centers. Public safety departments – police and fire – will not be affected by this closure.

TRASH

Trash will be collected a day behind the usual schedule during the week of January 2, 2023. If your trash is typically collected on Monday’s route, it will be picked up Tuesday. If your trash is typically collected on Tuesday’s route, it will be picked up Wednesday and so on. Please place your bins in the typical location in your street or alley.

ISLAND TRANSIT

Island Transit service, including fixed-routes, ADA service, the Seawall and rail trolleys, will end their service on New Year’s Eve, December 31 at 5 p.m. Island Transit services will be closed on January 1 and 2. Administrative offices will also be closed. Island Transit will resume normal operations on Tuesday, January 3, 2023. 

SAFETY

It is illegal to sell or light off fireworks within city limits, and anyone caught violating this law will be fined. Shows or demonstrations provided by licensed pyro-technicians are the only exception to the regulation. The Galveston Fire Department is urging the public to take every precaution to ensure a safe, fun holiday. For more information about fire safety, please contact the Galveston Fire Marshal’s Office by calling (409) 797-3870.

Texas Department of Transportation is giving out $20 Lyft credits to 6 county areas (Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, and Waller). This is partnership between TxDOT, Governors Highway Safety Association, Lyft and Responsibility.org. Available while supplies last and good until January 9th. To access the Lyft credit, you may use the code TXDOTS20.

The City of Galveston will be strictly enforcing DWI laws. Look for the #GetHomeSafeGalveston QR code sticker if you're out and about this weekend. The QR code leads to resources for safe rides home and transit options, including numbers for local cabs, ride shares, and public transit routes.

The Galveston Police Department and the Community Outreach Department teamed up to create a quick guide to safe-ride resources for our residents and visitors. The stickers are available at bars and festival vendors and posted in public spaces. More information is available at www.galvestontx.gov/gethomesafegalveston 

As always, we hope you have a healthy and happy 2023, and we look forward to serving our residents in the New Year.