The rumors are true. After over a year of internal communications and signed NDAs, the city manager finally briefed San Antonio City Council and the public about its ambitious plan to have the Silver and Black move back to Hemisfair.
An overview
The city plans to build on the land where the Institute of Texan Cultures currently sits, as well as securing additional parcels of land for a total of 40 to 50 acres.
The plans include:
- A new Spurs arena
- A re-imagined Alamodome
- Converting the John Woods Courthouse into a 5,000-seat venue
- A new 1,000-room convention center hotel
- Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center expansion
- Retail and mixed-use space throughout the project
The proposed Sports and Entertainment District is estimated to take 15 years to complete construction.
Why more downtown construction?
The city has a vision of becoming a premium sporting event host that would potentially revitalize the downtown metro area, and elevate San Antonio’s economy.
Who’s paying for it?
The city has identified various revenue streams like multiple tax streams, the Spurs, lease + parking revenue, and grants.
An estimated cost of the project has not been shared, but predictions show it could hover around $4 billion.
What about the Frost Bank Center?
According to City Manager Erik Walsh, Project Marvel could be constructed without the Spurs actually moving there. The reason being is that Frost Bank and the Spurs have a lease agreement for the Frost Bank Center that doesn’t expire until 2032.
Community impact
It’s no secret that the Spurs moving out of its home of 22 years will be felt by East Side residents. Once promising an economic boom to the area, residents near the Frost Bank Center didn’t notice such an impact.
Based on renderings, the project includes an “Eastside Connector” which features a land bridge connecting the Alamodome to the Sports and Entertainment District going over I-37.
What’s next?
Thursday’s presentation was exactly that — a presentation. There’s nothing to vote on yet, with immediate next steps including public information + feedback meetings, continuing feasibility cost research, field contractor agreements, develop a funding plan.
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