News Summary
San Antonio has revealed plans for a 188-acre arboretum at the former Republic Golf Club, aiming to create a green space focused on education and community engagement. Designed with input from thousands, the project includes trails, outdoor classrooms, and a nature center, representing a commitment to enhancing the city’s green infrastructure. The initiative is part of a larger vision for interconnected parks throughout the city, set to transform the local landscape over the coming decades.
San Antonio Unveils Master Plans for Arboretum at Former Republic Golf Club
San Antonio has announced the master plans for a 188-acre green space that will transform the former Republic Golf Club into an extensive arboretum dedicated to trees. Positioned on Southeast Military between Interstate 37 and Loop 410, this site is located approximately two miles east of Brooks and a mere 10 to 12-minute drive from downtown San Antonio.
Adriana Quinones, the CEO and President of Arboretum San Antonio, underscored the importance of creating green spaces that promote a sense of calm amid daily stressors. This project is part of a larger vision to develop an “emerald necklace” of interconnected green areas throughout the city.Â
Master Plan Features
The master plan for Arboretum San Antonio, developed with input from more than 18,000 community members, includes an array of features designed to enhance visitor experience and education. Planned attractions encompass trails, a tree canopy walk, an amphitheater, outdoor classrooms, a welcome center, a café, an event center, a playground, pond plaza, boardwalks, a gathering space known as Twin Oaks, a nature center, and an education training center.
Construction will occur in phases, with the current phase dubbed “Phase 0.” The forthcoming Phase 1 is scheduled to begin groundbreaking in 2028. The project aims to be fully realized over the next two decades, reflecting a commitment to long-term development.
Community Engagement and Vision
The concept for Arboretum San Antonio was originally envisioned in 2021 by former San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros, who characterized the arboretum as a project that will endure for generations. The recent unveiling event held on May 10, 2025, drew significant public interest, showcasing presentations and educational materials concerning the final design.
The audience at the unveiling included key figures such as Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai, who expressed support for the project during the presentations. The architecture and design firm Sasaki is instrumental in creating the overarching design of the arboretum, ensuring that the new green space will both serve the community’s needs and honor the ecological and cultural heritage of the region.
Future Impact
The completion of Arboretum San Antonio is anticipated to transform over 200 acres into a world-class destination focusing on trees, nature, and education. The project is expected to not only enhance the local environment but also promote community engagement and awareness of ecological conservation.
With the master plans now in place, supporters hope this initiative will provide a meaningful contribution to San Antonio’s landscape, offering residents and visitors alike a sanctuary for nature and learning for years to come.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- San Antonio Express-News
- Wikipedia: Arboretum
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Search: San Antonio Arboretum
- KENS 5
- Google Scholar: San Antonio Arboretum
- KSAT News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Arboretum
- Express-News Columnist – Elaine Ayala
- Google News: San Antonio Arboretum
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
