SAN ANTONIO — Plans for a new downtown arena for the San Antonio Spurs are moving forward, but not without controversy.
Last week, the city council voted 7 to 4 to proceed with the term sheet, despite Mayor Ortiz Jones’ desire to pause the process for further review.
During an hours-long debate at City Plaza, tensions rose when Mayor Jones asked Spurs owner Peter Holt for his opinion on conducting another economic impact study.
“Mr. Holt, is there an opposition to us seeking an independent economic study allowing us additional time to engage with our constituents, just yes or no please,” said Mayor Jones.
Holt responded, “I’m going to try one more time again, there’s ample information that shows this city deserves, this city deserves,” before being interrupted by applause and the mayor’s call for order.
The council ultimately blocked the mayor’s resolution to pause negotiations. City Manager Erik Walsh said the focus now shifts to contracts for various aspects of the development and how it might impact area businesses.
Local business owners expressed optimism about the potential economic benefits of the new arena. “Everyone loves Spurs around here, and we really want the Spurs to succeed,” said one business owner.
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Another added, “I think it’s going to do, you know, a lot of help for, you know, growing our location. The servers are definitely looking excited to increase revenue and keep tips at this location.”
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However, concerns about construction-related disruptions remain. Edward Garza, a local business owner, said, “Not excited about the construction. Traffic is kind of a mess, but, you know, they are going to have some additional parking garages in the plan, so we’re hoping that that’ll, you know, be okay.”
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Allison Galvan noted, “Anytime there’s events, especially at the Alamodome, we have to close early because of event parking prices. Our members can’t get to the studio.”
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As the project progresses, questions remain about the potential impact of another economic study, the timeline for its completion, and whether Bexar County voters will approve the venue tax in November.
