San Antonio invests in downtown connectivity
What happened
San Antonio awarded a $3.7M contract to study connections between downtown and the East Side as part of Project Marvel.
Why it matters
The $3.7 million contract was awarded to Aecom Technical Services Inc. to explore ways to reduce the barrier between downtown and the East Side caused by I-37. The firm will spend nine months developing proposals, with public engagement starting in April. The study will focus on a nearly 2-mile stretch of I-37 from Houston Street to Carolina Street, encompassing the future sports and entertainment district, Project Marvel, and the Alamodome. The goal is to improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, making the area safer and more walkable. Funding includes almost $3 million from a U.S. Department of Transportation Neighborhood Access and Equity Planning Grant, plus $740,000 from the city's Hotel Occupancy Tax Redemption and Capital Fund. The potential connector is described as an attempt at creating a “seamless urban experience". The East Side has historically faced challenges due to being separated from downtown by I-37. This initiative aims to improve access for Eastside residents to jobs, healthcare, and recreational opportunities in the city center.
Key numbers
- San Antonio awarded a $3.7M contract to study connections between downtown and the East Side as part of Project Marvel.
- The $3.7 million contract was awarded to Aecom Technical Services Inc.
- to explore ways to reduce the barrier between downtown and the East Side caused by I-37.
- The study will focus on a nearly 2-mile stretch of I-37 from Houston Street to Carolina Street, encompassing the future sports and entertainment district, Project Marvel, and the Alamodome.
What happens next
- The firm will spend nine months developing proposals, with public engagement starting in April.
- The study will focus on a nearly 2-mile stretch of I-37 from Houston Street to Carolina Street, encompassing the future sports and entertainment district, Project Marvel, and the Alamodome.
- This initiative aims to improve access for Eastside residents to jobs, healthcare, and recreational opportunities in the city center.
Sources
Quick answers
What happened in San Antonio invests in downtown connectivity?
San Antonio awarded a $3.7M contract to study connections between downtown and the East Side as part of Project Marvel.
Why does San Antonio invests in downtown connectivity matter?
The $3.7 million contract was awarded to Aecom Technical Services Inc. to explore ways to reduce the barrier between downtown and the East Side caused by I-37. The firm will spend nine months developing proposals, with public engagement starting in April. The study will focus on a nearly 2-mile stretch of I-37 from Houston Street to Carolina Street, encompassing the future sports and entertainment district, Project Marvel, and the Alamodome. The goal is to improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, making the area safer and more walkable. Funding includes almost $3 million from a U.S. Department of Transportation Neighborhood Access and Equity Planning Grant, plus $740,000 from the city's Hotel Occupancy Tax Redemption and Capital Fund. The potential connector is described as an attempt at creating a “seamless urban experience". The East Side has historically faced challenges due to being separated from downtown by I-37. This initiative aims to improve access for Eastside residents to jobs, healthcare, and recreational opportunities in the city center.
