Southeast Texas is set to receive more than $30 million in federal funding for coastal infrastructure, navigation and environmental projects under a sweeping appropriations package approved by Congress, money local leaders say is critical for economic growth and storm protection in the region.
The funding is included in a 2026 federal appropriations bill that cleared both the U.S. House and Senate and is awaiting the president’s signature. The money targets long-standing priorities along the Upper Texas Coast, including shipping channels, flood mitigation and marine research.
The largest share — nearly $18 million — is earmarked for operations and maintenance of the Galveston Ship Channel, one of the nation’s busiest waterways for petrochemical exports and commercial shipping. Federal officials say the funding will help ensure the channel remains navigable and competitive for global trade.
Another about $9 million would go toward continued work on the Sabine-Neches Waterway, which serves the ports of Beaumont, Port Arthur and Orange. The project aims to deepen the channel to allow larger vessels to reach Southeast Texas ports, a move expected to support jobs and expand the region’s role in energy and industrial exports.
The bill also includes $5 million for engineering and design work on the Coastal Texas Project, commonly known as the Ike Dike. The massive coastal resilience initiative is designed to reduce storm surge and flooding risks for coastal communities and protect critical energy infrastructure from hurricanes.
In addition, $1.25 million is allocated for oyster research and aquaculture support through Texas A&M AgriLife. The funding is intended to strengthen sustainable oyster production, restore coastal habitats and support the region’s seafood industry.
Supporters say the investments address both immediate economic needs and long-term environmental challenges in Southeast Texas, a region that has suffered repeated flooding and hurricane damage in recent years.
The funding continues a broader federal focus on coastal Texas, where lawmakers and industry leaders have pushed for sustained investment to protect ports, communities and ecosystems that play a major role in the national economy.