Solving the traffic issue of Bandera Road

The future of Bandera Road: public transportation and sustainability

The Bandera Road Corridor Plan intends to solve traffic congestion concerns. | Rendering via CoSA

If you’ve driven on Bandera Road, odds are you’ve experienced the dismal experience that is waiting in standstill traffic for what seems like lifetimes. Well, the City of San Antonio is hoping to solve that soon.

Last week, CoSA adopted the Bandera Road Corridor Plan (Phase 1) that seeks to address community concerns with one of the most heavily commuted — and notoriously congested — areas in the 210.

CoSA worked closely with partners, including TxDOT and the City of Leon Valley, in the planning process for approximately 6.5 linear miles of roads, businesses, and residents. The adopted plan, which was developed under the guidance of the SA Tomorrow Comprehensive Plan, will serve as a blueprint to further improve the area.

Still confused about what this looks like exactly? Let’s break it down.

The “TLDR” version [too long, didn’t read]

The plan, which was initiated in 2019, was a joint effort brought forth from a collaboration with residents, business owners, and area stakeholders. With a newly adopted game plan, we now how a better idea of what the community wants to see for the area (public transportation, traffic management, landscaping, etc.) and how to ensure that vision is fulfilled.

Increasing multi-modal access spaces is one strategy identified for the corridor.

Other major takeaways

More traffic lanes is not the answer. City staff have emphasized the need for strategies that will minimize additional traffic while promoting sustainable solutions.
Future developments should be consistent with best practices. This includes developments supporting connections to public transit, incorporate green spaces, and are pedestrian-forward.
Public transportation is key. Installing bicycle and pedestrian paths, arterial network improvements, and transit-supportive infrastructural strategies are crucial to solving traffic woes.
A better future is possible. Creating a walkable, sustainable, and generally attractive Bandera Road may seem far-fetched now, but this plan hopes to set the foundation for the next generation.

Want a deeper dive into what these recommendations look like? Of course you do. For a detailed look, read the latest draft online.

Click here to have your event featured.

Monday, Dec. 19

Lightscape | Monday, Dec. 19-Sunday, Jan. 8 | 5:30-9 p.m. | San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Pl., San Antonio | $16-$60 | Journey through a 1-mile walking trail of lights, showcasing some never-before-seen installations.
Monday Market in Bulverde | Monday, Dec. 19-Monday, Feb. 20 | 9-3 p.m. | 2541 Bulverde Rd., Bulverde | Free | Stop and shop a collection of vendors and food trucks offering items like coffee, jewelry, and clothing.

Tuesday, Dec. 20

Jewish Chinese Christmas Menu at The Hayden | Tuesday, Dec. 20-Friday, Dec. 23 | 11 a.m.-9 p.m. | The Hayden, 4025 Broadway St., San Antonio | Free | For those that are sick of all the turkey, try something new — perhaps a meatloaf eggroll?
Holiday Laser Show | Tuesday, Dec. 20 | 3-5:30 p.m. | Lila Cockrell Theatre, 200 E. Market, San Antonio | Free | Marvel at this multimedia spectacular, complete with choreographed laser beams, colorful animation, and light effects performed to traditional holiday favorites.

Wednesday, Dec. 21

Chanukah at Pearl | Wednesday, Dec. 21 | 6-8 p.m. | Pearl, 303 Pearl Pkwy., San Antonio | Free | Guests are invited to enjoy the lighting of the menorah and a special message from Rabbi Eli Block.

Thursday, Dec. 22

Hotel Havana - Last Minute Holiday Market | Thursday, Dec. 22 | 5-10 p.m. | Hotel Havana, 1015 Navarro St., San Antonio | Free | Wrap up your holiday shopping with gifts from local vendors, music from DJ SLM, and food + drink specials from Ocho.

Friday, Dec. 23

Live Music at Q Bar – Dylan Loza | Friday, Dec. 23 | 6-9 p.m. | Q Bar at Hyatt Regency San Antonio, 123 Losoya St., San Antonio | Free | Make your way over to the River Walk for a night of classic soul sounds.

Saturday, Dec. 24

Glow Yoga | Saturday, Dec. 24, Saturday, Dec. 31 | House of Healing, 15000 TX-46, Spring Branch | $20 | The room will be illuminated by black light, so wear light, white, or neon colors for the most glow.

Sunday, Dec. 25

Christmas Dining at Hyatt Regency Hill Country’s Springhouse Café | Sunday, Dec. 25 | 2-8 p.m. | Hyatt Regency Hill Country, 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr., San Antonio | $24-$75 | Guests over the age of 21 will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine upon arrival.

We have a calendar filled with events and activities you can plan for in advance. Click the button below to bookmark ideas for upcoming date nights, family outings, and time with friends.

100+ MORE EVENTS

A river running through Prince Solms Park

The start and finish line will be at Prince Solms Park. | Photo provided by Randy Flores - Universal City Texas

Lace up, SATX. This new half marathon allows runners, walkers, and joggers to experience New Braunfels in a whole new way. The race starts at 7 a.m. and features a route that takes participants by the historic gazebo in downtown New Braunfels_, through scenic neighborhoods, over the Guadalupe River, and into the historic Gruene District. 👟

Stick around after the race for an after-party with food, music, and more. Pro tip: Score a discounted ticket by registering before Saturday, Dec. 31.*

Weather

59º | Thunderstorms | 80% chance of rain
San Antonio might see the coldest air of the season late this week. Meteorologists expect temperatures to dip below freezing Thursday night into Friday morning for several days. It might not be a “White Christmas” in the 210 this year, but it’ll certainly be a chilly one. 🧣 (MySA)

Biz

The Cavender Auto Family acquired three Hudiburg Auto Group dealerships in Oklahoma, further expanding its out-of-state footprint. The family currently owns and operates 17 dealerships, with 11 acquired in the last two years alone. 🚗 (San Antonio Business Journal)

Development

The City of San Antonio approved $10 million for renovations for The Historic Market Square and Guadalupe Theater. The scope of the renovations will include improvements to existing infrastructure as well as upgrades to public areas and art. The timeline for the project has yet to be announced. ⚒️ (San Antonio Report)
High Street Wine Co. will take on a $300,000 renovation to expand its footprint by merging an adjacent tenant space. The project will add additional seating, storage, and a new food prep area. Demolition and construction are set to begin in January. 🍷

Coming Soon

We’ve got a-glaze-ing news — Voodoo Doughnut will finally open its doors on Tuesday, Dec. 20 at 8 a.m. According to a recent post, the Portland-based donut shop will celebrate its SATX debut with free t-shirts to the first 50 in line, entertainment, and a few surprises. Visit the location at 400 E. Houston St. 🍩

Job

Metro Health was awarded a $25.5 million grant from the CDC to help strengthen it’s workforce. The funds will not only go towards supporting 34 existing full time positions, but also hiring dozens of new ones — like a workforce director. Check out the full list of new jobs online. 🏥 (San Antonio Express-News)

Health

Quality healthcare can be hard to find. That’s why HealthTexas Primary Care Doctors makes it its mission to deliver compassionate care with outstanding service — to every patient, every time. Bonus: The healthcare provider is nominated as Best Doctors in San Antonio. Become a patient or call (210) 731-HTMG for more information. 🩺 *

Shop

Give the gift of a quality shave month after month with a Harry’s trial set and blade subscription. Choose your handle color, refill frequency, and let the good shave days roll in for as little as $5 on sign-up (yes, you heard that right). 🪒 *
If you’re looking for a last-minute gift for someone on your list, look no further. Let us introduce you to gift cards from our SATXtoday shop, Six & Main. Purchase a gift card today. 🎁

Content marked with an * is brought to you by our advertising partners and helps make this newsletter free.

7 common mistakes when hiring a financial advisor 👀

SmartAsset matches you with vetted financial advisors in your area. | Photo by SmartAsset

Life should be a balance of adventure and relaxation — not balancing finances. Enter: Working with a financial advisor. But choosing the wrong one could potentially wreak havoc on your retirement and investments.

Avoid these 7 common mistakes when hiring a financial advisor so you can get back to the balance that matters most.

Pro tip: For simplicity, try this free tool to get matched with up to three vetted financial advisors serving your area.*

GET STARTED, SMARTIE

THE WRAP

Today’s issue was written by Iván.

Editor’s pick: You will meet some of the kindest people at High Street Wine Co. — almost guaranteed. I recently decided to explore my interest in wine, so I figured a visit wouldn’t hurt. The staff was so helpful in guiding me through their impressive section of vino. I ended up settling on a delicious Chianti red that I need to go back for.

Pro tip: Don’t miss out on the incredible Neapolitan pizza (er, flatbread — if you want to be technical).

Missed our latest newsletter? If you’re wondering whether it will snow next year, check out our winter weather predictions.

Connect with us.

Editorial: Ivan Briones, Dayten Rose, Josh Kranzberg, Emily Shea | Send us a scoop, question, or feedback.

Sales: Carolyn Hudson | Advertise with us.

Content marked with an * was created in partnership with 6AM City’s advertising partners. Paid content helps keep this newsletter free. 6AM City may also receive a commission on purchases made through affiliate links in this newsletter.

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