San Antonio, January 16, 2026
The San Antonio City Council has approved a $30 million purchase of federal land near Hemisfair Park, a pivotal step for the new downtown arena for the San Antonio Spurs as part of Project Marvel. This acquisition includes a federal office building and parking lots, marking significant progress toward revitalizing the downtown area. The Spurs organization is funding the purchase entirely, which is part of a broader plan for an entertainment district expected to generate substantial economic activity and community benefits.
San Antonio City Council Approves $30 Million Land Purchase for New Spurs Arena
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio City Council has unanimously approved a $30 million purchase of federal land near Hemisfair Park, a pivotal step in the development of a new downtown arena for the San Antonio Spurs. This acquisition is fully funded by the Spurs organization and marks significant progress in the city’s ambitious Project Marvel.
Details of the Acquisition
The approved purchase includes a federal office building and two adjacent parking lots, collectively spanning approximately 5.7 acres. These properties are situated at 727 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. and 610 and 611 Indianola St., directly adjacent to the former federal courthouse. The acquisition is part of the broader plan to establish a sports and entertainment district in downtown San Antonio, centered around the proposed $1.3 billion arena for the Spurs. The Spurs will cover the $30 million purchase cost, with the city handling the transaction due to federal regulations requiring sales to public entities. Additionally, the Spurs will pay up to $120,000 in closing costs associated with the purchase.
Project Marvel Overview
Project Marvel is an extensive initiative aimed at revitalizing downtown San Antonio by creating a vibrant sports and entertainment district. The project encompasses the construction of a new arena for the Spurs, along with mixed-use developments that include housing, retail spaces, offices, and hotels. The Spurs have committed over $2 billion to this endeavor, which includes $500 million for the arena, $1.4 billion for Hemisfair Park and surrounding improvements, $30 million for the purchase and redevelopment of the federal building property, and $75 million in community benefits to be designated by City Council.
Funding and Community Impact
The funding for the arena and associated developments is structured through a combination of visitor taxes, contributions from the Spurs, and investments from downtown developers. Notably, the project is designed to avoid diverting funds from other community priorities. The city estimates that the Downtown District will generate over $18 billion in economic activity over 30 years, along with new jobs, visitors, and more than $350 million in city tax revenue.
Next Steps
With the land acquisition approved, the city and the Spurs will proceed with the development of the arena and surrounding district. The arena is expected to be completed by the start of the 2032-33 NBA regular season. The project aims to enhance the city’s cultural and economic landscape, providing a state-of-the-art venue for the Spurs and a dynamic space for residents and visitors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What properties are being acquired for the new Spurs arena?
The acquisition includes a federal office building and two adjacent parking lots, totaling approximately 5.7 acres, located at 727 E. César E. Chávez Blvd. and 610 and 611 Indianola St., near Hemisfair Park.
Who is funding the $30 million purchase?
The purchase is fully funded by the San Antonio Spurs organization, with the city facilitating the transaction due to federal regulations requiring sales to public entities.
What is Project Marvel?
Project Marvel is an initiative to create a sports and entertainment district in downtown San Antonio, featuring a new arena for the Spurs and mixed-use developments including housing, retail spaces, offices, and hotels.
How is the arena and district being funded?
Funding comes from a combination of visitor taxes, contributions from the Spurs, and investments from downtown developers, structured to avoid diverting funds from other community priorities.
What is the expected completion date for the new arena?
The arena is expected to be completed by the start of the 2032-33 NBA regular season.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown San Antonio, near Hemisfair Park |
| Arena Capacity | Approximately 17,000 to 18,500 seats |
| Completion Date | Start of the 2032-33 NBA regular season |
| Project Cost | Estimated at $1.3 billion for the arena; over $2 billion total for the district |
| Funding Sources | Visitor taxes, Spurs contributions, downtown developers |
| Community Impact | Over $18 billion in economic activity over 30 years; more than $350 million in city tax revenue |
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