City Unveils Conceptual Design for $15 Million Main Plaza Improvement Project

SAN ANTONIO — A major transformation is coming to Main Plaza, with the City of San Antonio advancing plans for a comprehensive renovation aimed at improving accessibility, functionality, and daily public use in one of Downtown’s most historic gathering spaces.

The Main Plaza Improvement Project is currently in the design phase and builds upon earlier work completed in 2023, when the plaza’s five fountains were removed and stabilized as part of Phase 1. That initial work was funded through the City’s FY 2023 Adopted Budget, which allocated $4.5 million to address fountain safety and accessibility issues.

What’s Planned for Main Plaza

Once complete, the full renovation will include:

• 100 percent ADA accessibility throughout the plaza

• A new food and beverage building

• Improved pedestrian circulation and connectivity

• A modern lighting system compatible with the SAGA Art Installation, Fiesta, and other large-scale events

• New public furniture and upgraded surfacing

• A pavilion and stage structure for programming and performances

• Public restroom building upgrades

• New trees, landscaping, and irrigation systems

The project is designed to support both daily use and large community events while improving comfort, safety, and inclusivity.

Funding and Project Background

In 2023, the Main Plaza Conservancy completed a master planning process that called for a full redesign of the plaza to address longstanding challenges related to accessibility, maintenance, programming, and public use. That vision expanded the project scope and required additional funding.

City Council approved an additional $5.5 million in the FY 2024 Adopted Budget, bringing the City’s total investment to $10 million. In April 2025, City Council further approved an agreement in which the Main Plaza Conservancy committed a $5 million donation toward the project, increasing total funding to $15 million.

Construction Timeline

Construction is currently estimated to take place from Summer 2027 through Summer 2028. Project timelines are organized by seasonal phases:

• Winter: January–March

• Spring: April–June

• Summer: July–September

• Fall: October–December

Community Open House Scheduled

Community members are invited to preview the conceptual design and speak directly with the project team at an upcoming open house.

Main Plaza Improvement Project Open House
📅 Monday, Feb. 23
⏰ 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
📍 Central Library

The open house is hosted by Capital Delivery, Center City Development & Operations, and City Council offices. Attendees may arrive anytime during the event window.

Project Contact

For more information about the Main Plaza Improvement Project, residents may contact Jamaal Moreno at 210-207-6924.

As design work continues, City officials say public feedback will play an important role in shaping the future of Main Plaza as a more accessible, vibrant, and welcoming space for all San Antonians.