Overview of the Upcoming Ballpark

The San Antonio Missions baseball team is making significant strides toward securing a new downtown ballpark, with plans anticipated to be revealed as early as this summer. This project marks a transition from a long-held aspiration to actionable development.

Ownership of the Missions has announced that the global design firm Populous will spearhead the design and architecture of the new venue, which is slated to open in 2028. This firm has an extensive portfolio, having designed over 75 ballparks throughout the United States, including the Southwest University Park in El Paso.

Project Funding and Governance

The project will be managed by the newly formed San Pedro Creek Development Authority, which includes city and county representatives as well as team owners. This Authority will oversee the $160 million project, issuing private bonds for funding and securing a significant contribution of $126 million from the Midtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone.

Bob Cohen, co-founder of Designated Bidders, indicated that this timely announcement allows the team to remain in San Antonio, as per Major League Baseball (MLB) guidelines. “Major League Baseball wants to be in San Antonio, but they’re very clear about their requirements, and nobody gets a pass,” Cohen remarked.

Current Stadium and Its Limitations

As of 2025, the Missions continue to play at the Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium, which has served as their home since 1994. Despite renovations, the facility is deemed subpar for Double-A play due to inadequate clubhouses, field lighting, and training amenities.

Imagining the New Venue

The envisioned ballpark will not only address the deficiencies of the current venue but will also embrace modern standards seen in newer stadiums. Cohen has cited several recent Texas ballparks as inspiration, emphasizing the intention to create a transformative experience for fans.

Highlights of the new design may include:

• A 360-degree concourse for all-around views of the field.
• Advanced amenities such as climbing walls, sports bars, and interactive gaming areas.
• A focus on multi-functional use of the space for concerts, events, and community gatherings.

“We’re going to make choices and make trade-offs and come up with something that has state-of-the-art assets that activate for our sponsors and a venue that makes a night at the ballpark very memorable for our fans,” Cohen added.

Vision Beyond Baseball

Beyond hosting baseball games, the new ballpark aims to be a versatile venue catering to a wide array of events, such as:

• Concerts and music festivals
• Community meetings and graduations
• Sports tournaments and car shows

Populous senior principal Byron Chambers stated, “This will be a gathering place, a source of pride and a true celebration of the city.”

Future Developments

Simultaneously, plans are in motion for a new arena for the San Antonio Spurs, reinforcing the city’s commitment to maintaining its professional sports presence. The Missions’ leadership fully supports the development of a vibrant sports and entertainment district, which is expected to spur growth and engagement in the downtown area.

Cohen expressed excitement about the eventual opening of the new park, stating that it will uniquely enrich the fan experience and invigorate an area in need of revitalization.