New downtown district could spur more urban redevelopment, San Antonio leaders say

Main Plaza

San Antonio leaders are attempting to create a new Downtown National Register District. If they are successful, the payoff for prospective developers would be greater access to critical tax credits, which stakeholders expect will lead to increased redevelopment in the center city.

San Antonio’s Office of Historic Preservation contracted with Main Street Architects in June to help expand the range of historic downtown structures that could be considered eligible for state and federal tax credits. That effort has resulted in a proposed district, which could be approved by the Texas Historic Commission next year.

The new downtown district would incorporate approximately 140 buildings that would become eligible for tax credits. It would bridge a gap not covered by the Main/Military Plaza, Alamo Plaza and La Villita National Register Districts.

Assistant City Manager Lori Houston said the tax credits are key to stimulating more interest in downtown structures.

Click to read entire article: New downtown district could spur more urban redevelopment, San Antonio leaders say (San Antonio Business Journal, 11-05-15)