Nirenberg’s final move: Project Marvel and the future of San Antonio
Writer: Andrea Teran
April 2025 — San Antonio is laying the groundwork for a downtown transformation. At the center of the plan is Project Marvel — a sweeping initiative that would bring in a new arena for the San Antonio Spurs, an expanded convention center, and major infrastructure improvements to the city’s urban core.
“We have one of the most unique downtowns in America,” Mayor Ron Nirenberg said during his final State of the City address, as cited by KENS5. “Now we have an opportunity to develop landmarks in a way that allows more locals to enjoy them, and that could be the future home of the Spurs.”
The city, Bexar County, and the Spurs signed a memorandum of understanding outlining their intent to collaborate on a new Sports and Entertainment District. The plan includes mixed-use development across 50 acres near Hemisfair, a new hotel adjacent to the Grand Hyatt, and a land bridge over I-37 to better connect the East Side to downtown.
County Judge Peter Sakai confirmed that Bexar County’s role centers on the proposed arena, which could go before voters in November as part of a venue tax election. “The venue tax will be critical for us to deliver on my pledge to redevelop the East Side,” Sakai said in a press release.
While the potential tax could determine whether Bexar County contributes public dollars to fund the new arena, the Spurs’ lease at the Frost Bank Center runs through 2032, giving stakeholders time to shape a long-term strategy.
The proposed arena would be located on the site of the former Institute of Texan Cultures, which is at the center of a preservation lawsuit. The city is in talks with the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and the University of Texas System to acquire the property, while preservation advocates are seeking to delay demolition, citing the site’s historical significance and pending federal review requirements.
In an interview with Invest:, City Manager Erik Walsh described the vision as a multi-phase project spanning the next decade, beginning with expansion of the Henry B. González Convention Center and infrastructure upgrades downtown. The goal is to remain competitive with peer cities by enhancing event capacity and visitor appeal while delivering new public spaces and amenities for residents.
“We’re focused on large transformational projects like the airport expansion and the downtown sports and entertainment district,” Walsh added. “San Antonio is the largest city in the U.S. with the highest bond ratings, which allows us to invest in critical projects at lower costs.”
As the city prepares for new leadership, Project Marvel will require continued coordination among local agencies, the state, and San Antonio residents. For now, the project remains in its early stages, with community engagement and financing plans still to come.
For Nirenberg, the project represents more than just new construction. “It’s a chance to make good on promises to communities that were left out before,” he added during the State of the City address, citing the East Side’s long-standing calls for equitable investment.
Top image via Alamodome
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