Brooks, the city‑owned development authority, recently closed on a 243‑acre parcel from the San Antonio River Authority (SARA) along Southton Road, just south of Loop 410. The land, valued at $3.8 million, is being positioned as a model “mini‑megasite” that can demonstrate how a shovel‑ready property attracts major manufacturers to San Antonio.
Why a mini‑megasite matters
Megasites—typically 500 to 1,000 acres—offer a single industrial user access to heavy transportation, rail, and a ready workforce. While Project Oso is smaller, its proximity to the Union Pacific rail line and existing utilities makes it attractive to “whales,” the large‑scale manufacturers Brooks says are scouting the region.
From soil storage to development opportunity
During the construction of the Mission Reach River Walk, SARA used the vacant parcel for soil and debris storage. After the project’s completion, SARA’s board approved the sale to Brooks, and General Manager Derek Boese praised the partnership for its strategic value to South San Antonio’s long‑term economic future.
Financing the pre‑development
Brooks’ president and CEO Leo Gomez explained that the agency can use a portion of the land—potentially a 100‑acre core—to finance pre‑development expenses. By securing infrastructure early, the site can be marketed to manufacturers within months, avoiding the “chicken‑and‑egg” dilemma that often stalls large‑scale projects.
Public‑private collaboration
The project will draw on funding and expertise from the city, Bexar County, and the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization. This collaborative formula has proven successful for Brooks in the past, and Gomez hopes it will accelerate Project Oso’s readiness.
Potential industries
Gomez envisions automotive suppliers as a primary target, but any light‑manufacturing operation that receives raw inputs or ships finished goods by rail could thrive here. The site’s tax‑free status for Brooks tenants and its location near existing infrastructure are key selling points.
Council involvement
The San Antonio City Council’s Governance Committee is slated to review a council consideration request (CCR) that would study a pilot program for creating additional shovel‑ready sites. Councilman Marc Whyte (D‑10) noted that such an inventory could reduce the city’s reliance on incentive agreements, aligning with broader economic‑development goals.
Brooks’ broader development track record
Project Oso follows several recent Brooks acquisitions, including a 55‑acre parcel near the State Hospital for supportive housing and land for multi‑family projects on Goliad Road. In 2022, Brooks spent $1 million to purchase property for the San Antonio Arboretum, demonstrating its commitment to diverse community assets.
While a tenant has not yet been identified for the Southton Road site, the combination of rail access, pre‑installed utilities, and the opportunity for tax‑free land makes it a compelling option for manufacturers seeking a rapid entry point into the San Antonio market.
Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.
