As San Antonio progresses into the new year, the city's downtown remains a bustling hub of construction activity. While some projects have reached completion, others continue to pose challenges for local business owners. The city is determined to balance progress with community needs, particularly as it prepares for major events like the 2025 NCAA Men’s Final Four.

Discover How San Antonio's Downtown Projects Are Shaping the Future of the City

The Road Ahead: Major Construction Milestones

The Lower Broadway Bond Project stands out as a significant achievement for the city’s public works department. This project, completed within the year, has brought much-needed improvements to the area. However, other key initiatives remain active, including the South Alamo Street and Zona Cultural projects. Both are slated for completion by 2025, with special attention given to ensuring they are ready for the NCAA Men’s Final Four event. The South Alamo Street Project, initiated in 2017, aims to reconstruct Alamo Street from Market Street to Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard. This ambitious endeavor includes pedestrian enhancements, drainage work, and utility upgrades. Despite delays and controversies, the city is committed to completing this project on time. Notably, the project faced a setback when SAWS refused to sign an MOU regarding the replacement of aging water and sewer mains. Instead, the city plans to patch the sewer main while leaving the water main untouched, prioritizing the upcoming Final Four.

Community Impact: Business Owners Speak Out

Downtown construction has not been without its critics. Local business owners have expressed frustration over the impact of ongoing projects on their operations. Earlier this year, the $185 million Alamo Visitor Center and Museum construction posed challenges for businesses along Houston Street. These concerns led to the formation of the Business Community PAC, a group advocating for better support and accountability from city officials.Aaron Peña, a prominent figure in San Antonio’s nightlife scene, was instrumental in launching the PAC. Joined by other business leaders like Jody Bailey Newman and Chad Carey, the PAC seeks to influence future city elections, aiming to hold City Manager Erik Walsh accountable for perceived failures in construction management. Newman emphasized that the issues seen in North St. Mary’s Strip are symptomatic of broader systemic problems.

Navigating Budget Priorities: City Council's Response

In response to these concerns, the city council has taken steps to address roadwork and infrastructure needs. The approved $4 million budget for fiscal year 2025 reflects a renewed focus on prioritizing essential repairs and improvements. This allocation underscores the city’s commitment to balancing development with the needs of local businesses and residents.The South Presa Street project, another 2017 bond initiative, aims to enhance the corridor from Military Drive to Southcross. With approximately $22 million already invested, this project is expected to conclude by spring. The improvements will significantly benefit the area, providing better connectivity and amenities for both residents and visitors.

Zona Cultural: A Historic District Reborn

Zona Cultural, a 44-block historic district on the western edge of downtown, holds a unique place in San Antonio’s history. Known as "the birthplace of San Antonio," this area is undergoing a transformative reconstruction effort. Sundt Construction has been leading the charge on three key bond projects within Zona Cultural, focusing on Commerce Street, San Saba Street, and Santa Rosa Street. These efforts aim to preserve the district’s heritage while modernizing its infrastructure.Since 2020, Zona Cultural has become a focal point for urban renewal. The ongoing work not only enhances the area’s aesthetics but also strengthens its economic potential. As the city looks ahead, Zona Cultural exemplifies the delicate balance between preserving historical significance and fostering sustainable growth.