Spurs CEO Calls on San Antonio to Unite Behind Downtown Arena Project
SAN ANTONIO – Spurs Sports & Entertainment CEO R.C. Buford is urging the community to rally behind San Antonio’s next chapter, saying the city’s future depends on moving forward together with the approved downtown arena and entertainment district project.
In a public letter titled “Believing in What’s Next for San Antonio,” Buford thanked Bexar County voters for approving the vision last November and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to delivering on the promises made during the campaign.
“Now is the time to move forward together,” Buford wrote.
According to Buford, the project represents more than a new home for the San Antonio Spurs. He described it as a long-term investment designed to strengthen the East Side, create jobs, attract private investment and generate new opportunities for local businesses and future generations.
More than $2 billion in private investment
Buford said the City of San Antonio, Bexar County, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and Spurs Sports & Entertainment have spent several years developing the plan.
He noted that the Spurs and development partners are investing more than $2 billion into the project and have committed to covering any construction cost overruns.
He also emphasized that the city’s portion of the funding comes from visitor-generated revenue collected through the State of Texas, which is legally restricted for tourism and venue-related projects and cannot be redirected to streets, schools, public safety or other general government services.
Playoff success highlighted economic impact
Buford pointed to the Spurs’ 2026 playoff run as an example of the economic impact professional sports can have on San Antonio.
According to the letter, an economic analysis estimated the playoffs generated $164 million in net spending for the city and $3.4 million in City tax revenue, including $1.4 million for the city’s general fund.
“We want that momentum rooted in our downtown for decades,” Buford wrote.
Community benefits and local hiring
The letter also highlighted a $75 million community benefits program, funded by the Spurs and managed by the City and Bexar County.
According to Buford, the program will support workforce development, future generations and small businesses while establishing local hiring and vendor goals to help ensure San Antonio residents directly benefit from the project.
He said the development is intended to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs, neighborhood businesses and young people entering the workforce.
“The work is underway”
Buford closed the letter by encouraging the community to stay united as construction plans move forward.
“The vote has taken place. The commitments have been made. The work is underway,” he wrote.
He concluded by inviting residents to help shape San Antonio’s future together, saying the city has the opportunity to build something worthy of its legacy while creating lasting economic benefits for generations to come.
