San Antonio, December 13, 2025
San Antonio Missions’ $1 billion downtown development is advancing, with construction of over 650 apartments and a hotel starting soon. The project, comprising four phases, aims to create a vibrant entertainment district and includes a new $160 million ballpark. Despite concerns about community impact and affordable housing, relocation assistance for affected tenants has been approved. The project is estimated to generate significant taxable revenue and employment opportunities for the region.
San Antonio’s $1 Billion Downtown Development Takes Shape
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Missions’ ambitious $1 billion downtown development is progressing, with the first phase focusing on housing and hospitality set to commence. Developer Weston Urban plans to construct over 650 apartments and a 160-room hotel adjacent to the proposed $160 million ballpark near San Pedro Creek Culture Park. This initial phase is expected to be completed by 2029, with the entire development slated for completion by 2031. The ballpark itself is projected to open in April 2028, serving as a catalyst for the surrounding mixed-use development.
Project Overview
The development will encompass four phases, aiming to transform a stretch of downtown into a vibrant entertainment district. The first two phases, valued at $575 million, will focus on residential and hotel accommodations. The subsequent phases, totaling $425 million, will include additional amenities and infrastructure, contributing to the projected $1 billion in taxable revenue by 2031.
Funding and Financial Structure
Funding for the stadium and surrounding development will be secured through bonds issued by the San Pedro Creek Development Authority, a public entity overseeing the project. The City of San Antonio and Bexar County will contribute a combined $126 million from new tax revenue generated by the development. The Missions’ ownership group, Designated Bidders, will provide $34 million and assume responsibility for any construction cost overruns. Additionally, the team will pay $1 million annually to lease the ballpark for 30 years, along with a $2 per-ticket fee, to help pay off the bond debt.
Community Impact and Considerations
The development has sparked discussions regarding its impact on the local community, particularly concerning affordable housing. The project will involve the demolition of the 381-unit Soap Factory Apartments, a rare source of market-rate affordable housing in downtown San Antonio. While the city has approved the plan, concerns have been raised about the displacement of residents and the adequacy of tenant protections. In response, the council has voted to provide relocation assistance packages for eligible tenants who move by September 2025.
Background Context
The San Antonio Missions, a Double-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, have called Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium home since 1994. However, Major League Baseball has deemed the existing stadium outdated and has mandated a new plan by August 1, 2024. The proposed downtown ballpark aims to meet these standards and serve as a catalyst for revitalizing the surrounding area.
Key Features of the San Antonio Missions’ Downtown Development Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Construction of a $160 million ballpark and surrounding mixed-use developments totaling $1 billion to revitalize downtown San Antonio. |
| Funding Sources | Bonds issued by the San Pedro Creek Development Authority, contributions from the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, and the Missions’ ownership group, along with annual lease fees and per-ticket fees from the team. |
| Community Impact | Demolition of the 381-unit Soap Factory Apartments, a rare source of market-rate affordable housing, with relocation assistance packages for eligible tenants who move by September 2025. |
| Timeline | Ballpark expected to open in April 2028; entire development completed by 2031. |
| Reason for New Ballpark | Existing Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium deemed outdated by Major League Baseball, necessitating a new facility to meet league standards. |
Conclusion
The San Antonio Missions’ downtown development project represents a significant investment in the city’s economic future, fostering opportunities for residential and commercial growth. While it raises important discussions about housing and community impact, the anticipated revenue and employment opportunities can contribute positively to the Bexar County economy. San Antonio residents are encouraged to remain engaged with these developments and support local businesses and innovations that could thrive in this evolving landscape.
What is the San Antonio Missions’ downtown development project?
The project involves constructing a new $160 million ballpark for the San Antonio Missions, along with surrounding mixed-use developments, totaling $1 billion, to revitalize downtown San Antonio. The ballpark is expected to open in April 2028, with the entire development completed by 2031.
How will the project be funded?
Funding will come from bonds issued by the San Pedro Creek Development Authority, with contributions from the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, and the Missions’ ownership group. The team will also pay annual lease fees and a per-ticket fee to help pay off the bond debt.
What are the community impacts of the development?
The project will demolish the 381-unit Soap Factory Apartments, a rare source of market-rate affordable housing in downtown San Antonio. Concerns have been raised about tenant displacement and the adequacy of tenant protections. The city has approved relocation assistance packages for eligible tenants who move by September 2025.
Why is a new ballpark being built for the San Antonio Missions?
Major League Baseball has deemed the existing Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium outdated and has mandated a new plan by August 1, 2024. The proposed downtown ballpark aims to meet these standards and serve as a catalyst for revitalizing the surrounding area.
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