Congress approves SA’s $135 million request for new federal courthouse, clearing path for more Hemisfair improvements

John H. Wood, Jr. Courthouse

Congress approved on Friday an Omnibus Appropriations bill that includes $135 million in funding for construction of a new federal courthouse in San Antonio.

The vote is expected to free up key real estate along Cesar Chavez Boulevard where the aging John H. Wood U.S. Courthouse is located, 655 E Durango Blvd. Local leaders contend the existing structure has been a major barrier, limiting the scope of redevelopment at Hemisfair.

A new federal courthouse is expected to be constructed west of Hemisfair along San Pedro Creek on land where the old police headquarters building once stood.

Mayor Ivy Taylor said construction of a new federal courthouse will pave the way for more bold improvements at the site of the 168 World’s Fair. She said it could also ignite more opportunities for redevelopment along the historic San Pedro Creek.

“This could have a huge impact on economic development,” Taylor said. “It will clear the way at Hemisfair for appropriate development along Cesar Chavez Boulevard, as well as facilitating something happening at the old police headquarters site we have cleared.”

Click to read entire article: Congress approves SA’s $135 million request for new federal courthouse, clearing path for more Hemisfair improvements (San Antonio Business Journal, 12-18-15)