Official Opening of Civic Park’s Second Phase at Hemisfair
On a windy Tuesday morning, San Antonio officials celebrated the opening of the second phase of Civic Park, part of the ongoing Hemisfair redevelopment. The gathering featured an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, highlighting the park’s new amenities aimed at enhancing community engagement.
New Features of Civic Park
The recently completed 9-acre park, situated at the northwest corner of Hemisfair, offers several new attractions, including:
- Source Plaza
- The Promenade
- Zócalo
- A dedicated performance stage
The park is now accessible to families, tourists, and city workers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can stroll from Market Street through Civic Park to popular local attractions like Yanaguana Garden and the Tower of the Americas.
Community Engagement and Celebrations
Young attendees and school groups from Sabinal Elementary School enjoyed the park’s features, with many gathering under the sycamore trees for lunch. Alli Kustoff, a board member of Hemisfair Conservancy, remarked, “We now have a park that is more than just a green space. It is a welcoming environment where San Antonians can gather for festivals,” which includes events like Muertos Fest and Jazz’SALive.
Investment in Urban Space
The completion of the $28 million urban park is timely, as it precedes the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four event, which is expected to bring many visitors to the city. Mayor Ron Nirenberg expressed enthusiasm for the park’s future, stating, “I can’t wait to see the park come alive with music, laughter and celebration.” He emphasized the park as a space for San Antonians to create memories and take pride in their community.
Future Developments at Hemisfair
City Manager Erik Walsh highlighted the park’s opening as a pivotal achievement leading toward further developments in the urban core, including a proposed new Spurs arena that is set to anchor a larger sports and entertainment district. According to Andres Andujar, the retiring president and CEO of Hemisfair, “Hemisfair is now a world-class destination, and I have no doubt its future is bright.”
Community Response
Local boy Rockwell Johnson, 6, expressed his excitement about the park, noting his favorite aspects: “the green part and the water part.” His father’s involvement as a superintendent in the park’s construction adds a personal connection to this community space.
Conclusion
The opening of Civic Park’s second phase marks a significant milestone for the Hemisfair project, enhancing the urban landscape and providing a vibrant venue for community gatherings and events. As San Antonio continues to evolve, Civic Park stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to developing inclusive public spaces.
