San Antonio Tx, August 25, 2025
News Summary
The San Antonio City Council has voted in favor of a $1.3 billion arena for the Spurs, despite opposition from Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones. The project has garnered mixed reactions, with local business owners optimistic about its economic impact while concerns exist around construction disruptions. The funding plan includes contributions from the city, county, and Spurs ownership. With a 30-year non-relocation agreement, the Spurs are committed to the city, and the arena is slated for completion by the 2032 NBA season.
San Antonio City Council has voted 7 to 4 to approve a term sheet for a new $1.3 billion arena intended for the San Antonio Spurs. Despite considerable opposition from Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones, who requested a pause for further economic impact assessment, the council opted to forge ahead with the project.
During a heated council meeting, Mayor Jones questioned the Spurs’ owner about the necessity of an independent economic study. The owner’s assurances about the economic viability of the arena were met with applause from supporters and interruptions from the mayor. Ultimately, the council dismissed her resolution to pause negotiations, signaling a commitment to advance the arena’s development.
City Manager Erik Walsh announced that attention will now turn toward the contracts associated with the arena’s construction and its potential implications for local businesses. Some business owners expressed excitement, anticipating an increase in revenue stemming from heightened foot traffic during events.
| Funding Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| City of San Antonio | $489 million |
| Bexar County (pending voter approval) | $311 million |
| Spurs Ownership | $500 million |
The funding package breaks down into contributions from the City of San Antonio at $489 million, Bexar County at $311 million (pending voter approval on November 4), and Spurs ownership at $500 million. Spurs management has agreed to cover any cost overruns and to spearhead a development initiative around the arena amounting to $1.4 billion over the next 12 years.
The Spurs have also committed to a non-relocation agreement, ensuring that they remain in San Antonio for at least 30 years, with a provision allowing for up to four home games each season at alternative venues. The arena is set to merge with a larger sports and entertainment district that will include a new convention center, a hotel tower, and residential developments.
While local business owners are optimistic about the prospective economic benefits of the new arena, concerns surrounding disruptions during construction and existing traffic challenges were voiced. These potential issues stem from the large events typically hosted at the Alamodome, for which many businesses feel unprepared in terms of parking and traffic management.
The new arena’s construction aims for completion ahead of the 2032 NBA season, a timeline that aligns with the expiration of the Spurs’ current lease at the Frost Bank Center, which has been in operation since its opening in 2002. Mayor Jones and her supporters criticized the decision to use public funds for such a project, especially amid the city’s existing high poverty rates.
As the process continues, the San Antonio Spurs’ managing partner has expressed that the council’s approval is a pivotal moment for revitalizing the city and enhancing community spirit.
What is the total cost of the new Spurs arena?
The proposed cost of the new arena is $1.3 billion.
How will the arena be funded?
The funding will be shared between the City of San Antonio ($489 million), Bexar County ($311 million pending voter approval), and Spurs ownership ($500 million).
What is the timeline for completing the new arena?
The arena is expected to be completed by the start of the 2032 NBA season.
What are local business owners saying about the new arena?
Some local business owners are optimistic about increased revenue due to foot traffic from arena events, while others are concerned about traffic and parking issues during construction.
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| July 2023 | City Council Vote on Arena | Approved 7 to 4 |
| November 4, 2023 | Voter Decision on Bexar County Funding | Pending |
| September 2032 | Current Lease Expires at Frost Bank Center | Upcoming |
| ProjectedCompletion | Completion of New Arena | 2032 NBA Season |
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Additional Resources
- San Antonio Express-News
- Wikipedia: San Antonio Spurs
- Fox San Antonio
- Google Search: San Antonio Spurs Arena
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Scholar: Economic impact of sports arenas
- San Antonio Current
- Encyclopedia Britannica: San Antonio Spurs
- Sports Business Journal
- Google News: San Antonio Spurs Arena
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.
