San Antonio, Texas, December 26, 2025
San Antonio’s Project Marvel, a $4 billion sports and entertainment district, is a key topic in the Bexar County Judge election. Candidates are debating transparency and fiscal responsibility as they discuss the project’s execution and funding. Incumbent Judge Peter Sakai criticizes the lack of public engagement, while former Mayor Ron Nirenberg supports the vision with a call for better collaboration. Recent polls show a divided electorate on funding methods for the project, indicating competitive dynamics as voters approach the election in November 2026.
San Antonio, Texas – Project Marvel Sparks Tensions in Bexar County Judge Race
San Antonio’s ambitious Project Marvel, a $4 billion downtown sports and entertainment district, has become a focal point in the upcoming Bexar County Judge election, with candidates highlighting issues of transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Project Marvel’s Impact on the Election
Project Marvel aims to redevelop downtown San Antonio, featuring a new multipurpose arena for the San Antonio Spurs, expanded convention facilities, and enhanced infrastructure. The project’s approval has intensified discussions in the Bexar County Judge race, with candidates emphasizing differing approaches to its implementation and funding.
Candidate Positions
Incumbent Judge Peter Sakai criticizes the project’s rollout, citing a lack of transparency and public input. He advocates for a more inclusive process, ensuring community engagement and clear communication. In contrast, former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg supports the project’s vision but calls for improved transparency and collaboration between city and county officials to address public concerns effectively.
Voter Sentiment and Election Outlook
Recent polls indicate a divided electorate. A UTSA Center for Public Opinion Research survey shows that 42% of voters support using the county’s venue tax to fund the new arena, while 41% oppose it, with 15% undecided. This split reflects broader concerns about fiscal responsibility and the project’s impact on taxpayers. The election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on March 3, 2026. Early indications suggest a competitive race, with candidates focusing on transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement to sway voters.
Background on Project Marvel
Project Marvel encompasses a comprehensive redevelopment plan for downtown San Antonio, including a new arena for the Spurs, expanded convention facilities, and improved infrastructure. The project aims to revitalize the area, attract tourism, and stimulate economic growth. However, its approval has sparked debates over funding sources, transparency, and the project’s alignment with community needs. The Bexar County Judge election has become a platform for candidates to address these issues, with voters closely watching the candidates’ positions on Project Marvel’s future.
Related Developments
In November 2025, Bexar County voters approved Propositions A and B, facilitating Project Marvel’s progression. Proposition A, passing with over 55% support, funds upgrades to existing venues, while Proposition B, with about 52% approval, allocates funds for the new Spurs arena. Despite this approval, debates continue regarding the project’s execution and its implications for the community.
Conclusion
As the Bexar County Judge election approaches, Project Marvel remains a central issue, influencing candidate platforms and voter opinions. The election’s outcome will significantly impact the project’s future and its role in San Antonio’s development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Project Marvel?
Project Marvel is a $4 billion downtown sports and entertainment district in San Antonio, featuring a new multipurpose arena for the San Antonio Spurs, expanded convention facilities, and enhanced infrastructure.
How has Project Marvel influenced the Bexar County Judge election?
Project Marvel has become a focal point in the Bexar County Judge race, with candidates highlighting issues of transparency and fiscal responsibility in relation to the project’s implementation and funding.
What are the positions of the candidates regarding Project Marvel?
Incumbent Judge Peter Sakai criticizes the project’s rollout, advocating for a more inclusive process. Former Mayor Ron Nirenberg supports the project’s vision but calls for improved transparency and collaboration between city and county officials.
What is the current voter sentiment on Project Marvel?
Recent polls indicate a divided electorate, with 42% of voters supporting the use of the county’s venue tax to fund the new arena, 41% opposing it, and 15% undecided.
When is the Bexar County Judge election scheduled?
The Bexar County Judge election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on March 3, 2026.
Key Features of Project Marvel and the Bexar County Judge Election
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Marvel | A $4 billion downtown sports and entertainment district in San Antonio, including a new Spurs arena, expanded convention facilities, and enhanced infrastructure. |
| Bexar County Judge Election | Scheduled for November 3, 2026, with primary elections on March 3, 2026, focusing on candidates’ positions regarding Project Marvel. |
| Voter Sentiment | Recent polls show divided opinions on Project Marvel, with 42% supporting the use of the county’s venue tax for the new arena, 41% opposing, and 15% undecided. |
| Candidate Positions | Incumbent Judge Peter Sakai advocates for transparency and community engagement, while former Mayor Ron Nirenberg supports the project’s vision with calls for improved collaboration between city and county officials. |
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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.
