Gulf Coast Transit District Launches New Route Connecting the Mainland and Galveston Island.

The Gulf Coast Transit District (GCTD) has officially launched a new route service, The Splash, in a landmark collaboration with Galveston Island Transit (GIT). This new service, which began operations on Monday, December 1, 2025, provides a seamless and affordable public transit connection between the Mainland and Galveston Island.

The Splash route is the latest milestone in GCTD's ambitious network expansion, representing one of three new connector routes added to the system in the past three months. This rapid expansion is part of a broader, ongoing effort to enhance regional mobility, which also includes a recent partnership with the City of Kemah that has successfully extended GCTD's micro-transit service area within Galveston County.

“This collaboration is a game-changer for our community,” said Ted Ross, GCTD Executive Director. “By linking our networks, we are breaking down transportation barriers and creating new opportunities for everyone. Whether it’s a mainland resident working in Galveston’s tourism industry or an island student attending college on the mainland, The Splash route makes that connection reliable and affordable.”

The Splash route operates Monday through Saturday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., running directly between the GCTD Terminal in Texas City at 1415 33rd St N and the GIT Terminal in Galveston at 2418 The Strand. This new route bridges a critical gap in the region’s transportation network, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to access employment, education, healthcare, and recreation on both sides of the causeway.

GCTD and GIT have designed The Splash route with the rider's convenience in mind:

• For Mainland Riders: Residents in GCTD's service area can schedule a convenient micro-transit ride to be taken directly to the Texas City Terminal. From there, they can transfer for free to The Splash for a direct trip to the island.

• For Island Riders: Galveston residents and visitors can use GIT’s fixed-route system, including The Island Loop and other local buses, to travel to the GIT Terminal, where they can seamlessly transfer to The Splash for their journey to the mainland.

• Continuing Your Trip: Riders needing to travel beyond the GCTD Texas City Terminal can ensure a smooth, curb-to-curb final leg by scheduling a micro-transit ride in advance. This can be done easily through the free GCTD mobile app or by calling the scheduling team at 1-800-266-2320.

Galveston Island Transit provides comprehensive public transportation services across Galveston Island. Their system includes fixed-route buses like The Island Loop, which circles the island and connects key destinations including The Strand, Seawall Boulevard, and Stewart Beach. For more information on GIT routes and schedules, visit their website at www.galvestontx.gov/393/Transportation.

This partnership between GCTD and GIT represents a significant step forward in creating a unified, regional transit system.