Texas City is a city located in Galveston County, Texas, United States.
It is situated on the southwest shoreline of Galveston Bay, about 50 miles southeast of Houston. Here are some key facts about Texas City:
- History: Texas City was founded in 1893 as a deepwater port and railroad terminus. The city experienced significant growth and industrial development throughout the 20th century.
- Economy: Texas City’s economy is largely centered around its port and petrochemical industry. The Port of Texas City is one of the busiest ports in the Gulf Coast region and handles a wide range of commodities. The petrochemical industry, including oil refining and chemical manufacturing, is a major employer in the city.
- Texas City Disaster: The city is unfortunately known for the Texas City disaster, which occurred on April 16, 1947. A ship loaded with ammonium nitrate fertilizer caught fire and exploded, causing a massive explosion that resulted in the deaths of nearly 600 people and widespread destruction.
- Recreation and Attractions: Texas City offers various recreational opportunities. The Texas City Dike, a 5-mile-long fishing pier, is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The Texas City Museum showcases the city’s history, including exhibits on the Texas City Disaster. There are also parks, golf courses, and a nature center in the area.
- Education: Texas City is served by the Texas City Independent School District, which operates several public schools in the area. College of the Mainland, a community college, is located in Texas City and provides higher education opportunities.
- Population: As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the population of Texas City was estimated to be around 50,094 residents.
- Hurricane Preparedness: Being located along the Gulf Coast, Texas City is vulnerable to hurricanes. The city has implemented various measures to enhance its hurricane preparedness and response capabilities.