San Antonio, TX, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Business owners in San Antonio’s Southtown, La Villita, and Hemisfair are facing significant financial difficulties due to extended road construction along South Alamo Street. Delays caused by infrastructure issues have pushed the project completion date to March 2026. Local businesses report revenue declines and stress the need for improved access and visibility for their establishments. In response, the city is offering financial grants and plans to enhance traffic flow but many owners feel more support is needed to survive these disruptions.
Small Businesses in San Antonio Struggle Amid Ongoing Construction and Infrastructure Issues
San Antonio, TX – Business owners in Southtown, La Villita, and Hemisfair are experiencing significant challenges due to extended road construction along South Alamo Street, which many claim is causing loss of traffic and customer patronage. The construction, which is associated with a major capital improvement project, has faced delays caused by unexpected infrastructure complications. Originally, the project was expected to be completed by December 2024, but new estimates indicate that completion may now extend to March 2026.
The frustrations of local business owners have grown as they report substantial declines in revenue over the past three years. Miles Donnelly, a business owner of La Frite Belgian Bistro, noted that city decisions have poorly impacted his business, correlating with a drop in customer traffic. Similarly, Jennifer Beckman, the owner of ReRooted 210 Urban Winery, has indicated that the ongoing local traffic issues are not only disrupting her operations but are also driving her loyal customers to competitors.
Barry Clark, owner of Scent Chips, emphasized the urgency of improved access to his business, especially with the anticipated arrival of 30,000 convention attendees. To address these changes, Michael Shannon, the head of the City Capital Delivery Department, has recognized the frustrations of the local business community. In response, plans have been announced to enhance traffic flow during construction with a new traffic control method intended to maintain southbound traffic on South Alamo Street.
In addition to addressing traffic concerns, the city has extended financial support to impacted businesses by offering grants of up to $35,000. However, many local business owners feel that these funds are inadequate compared to their financial losses due to the ongoing disruptions.
Other local establishments, including Plaza Taxco and Texas River Bar, have similarly reported significant revenue declines linked to road closures. The situation has aggravated further with unexpected complications arising from underground utility and archaeological issues reflected in the extended timeline for project completion.
Furthermore, construction near the Alamo is affecting foot traffic for businesses situated nearby. Business representatives have expressed concerns that customers may develop new habits and favor different locations, which could have long-term implications for their livelihoods. They are advocating for improved signage and wayfinding to better direct foot traffic during the extensive construction period.
Despite the disruptions, city officials are committed to supporting local businesses through effective marketing and communications strategies aimed at enhancing public awareness about accessible businesses amid the ongoing infrastructure improvements.
What areas in San Antonio are affected by construction?
Southtown, La Villita, and Hemisfair are the specific areas experiencing difficulties due to ongoing road construction along South Alamo Street.
When was the original completion date for the capital improvement project?
The original projected completion date for the capital improvement project was December 2024.
What are the new estimates for the completion of the project?
The new estimates for project completion are now set to March 2026.
What financial support does the city offer to affected businesses?
The city is offering grants of up to $35,000 to small businesses negatively impacted by the construction.
| Business Owner | Business Name | Concern | Support Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miles Donnelly | La Frite Belgian Bistro | Loss of customer traffic | Grants up to $35,000 |
| Jennifer Beckman | ReRooted 210 Urban Winery | Local traffic difficulties | Grants up to $35,000 |
| Barry Clark | Scent Chips | Need for better access | Grants up to $35,000 |
| Carley Eddleman | Buckhorn Saloon and Museum | Impact of construction on business | Grants up to $35,000 |
| N/A | Plaza Taxco | Significant revenue decline | Grants up to $35,000 |
| N/A | Texas River Bar | Significant revenue decline | Grants up to $35,000 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Get Ready, Texas! Your Ultimate Guide to Holiday Sales Prep
Carthage to Host Governor’s Small Business Summit
H-E-B Announces Finalists for Quest for Texas Best
North Texas: A Booming Hub for Innovation and Growth
Jackson Walker Leading the Charge in Texas Business Court
Dallas Welcomes Scotiabank’s New Office
Texas Challenges Delaware’s Business Dominance
Significant Changes for Texas Businesses with New Law
New Partnership Promises Boost to Small Business Financing
UT San Antonio Emerges from Historic Merger
Additional Resources
- KENS5
- Wikipedia: Alamo Redevelopment
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Search: San Antonio Road Construction Impact
- KSAT
- Google Scholar: Infrastructure Impact on Businesses
- San Antonio Current
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Infrastructure Issues
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google News: San Antonio Business Compensation
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.
