May 2, 2005

Galveston Economic Development Partnership

Pirates Galveston, a division of the Blackard Group Incorporated, presented a $10,000 check to Jeff Sjostrom, president of the Galveston Economic Development Partnership, on Friday for the newly operational Geographic Information System.  Photo

The contribution is the first installment of a $20,000 commitment from Pirates Galveston to facilitate the initial purchase and installation of the system.

“Pirates Galveston has taken a leadership position in providing a significant contribution for the GEDP to implement a new GIS system for Galveston Island," Sjostrom said.  "This tool is critical to the long-term, sustainable growth of our Island, and Pirates Galveston has acknowledged the importance of this tool through their generous sponsorship of the GEDP GIS system."

“Possibly the most important component of a GIS is the accumulation and communication of data,” added Michael Nixon of Pirates Galveston.  “GIS provides accurate real-time data; and comprehensive information leads to an improved decision making process.”

Pirates Galveston development strategy places natural aesthetics, compatibility with the existing neighborhood and environmental issues at the forefront.  Obtaining an inventory of the physical resources on the Island is critical to eliminating “piece-meal” development and protecting the Island’s diminishing natural resources.   

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