Local Developers Want to Demolish Historic San Antonio Buildings

The battle over the future of two historic buildings just west of downtown San Antonio has intensified.

Local developer David Adelman and restaurateur Barclay Anthony are seeking approval to demolish the Rich Book building at 900 West Houston Street and an adjacent structure, the San Antonio Express-News reported.

The buildings, across from VIA Metropolitan Transit’s Centro Plaza hub and a block from the University of Texas at San Antonio’s downtown campus, have been at the center of contentious debate for a couple of years.

Adelman and Anthony struggled to attract buyers or tenants due to concerns about renovation costs and homelessness in the area, according to a letter submitted to the city by their attorney, James McKnight.

They want to demolish and replace the buildings with housing and retail, as redeveloping them would cause “unreasonable economic hardship,” they argue.

West Side organizations, including the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, voiced strong opposition to the demolition, concerned about the loss of historic architecture in Cattleman Square.

“Why buy into a historic neighborhood if you’re not willing to honor and respect that history?” said Graciela Sánchez, who leads the nonprofit.

Cattleman Square, once a thriving commercial center with ties to the city’s cowboys and railways history, has faced decline in recent decades. Despite its historic designation in 1985, the area has struggled with economic challenges and neglect.

The Rich Book building, constructed in 1923, holds significant historical value, having housed various businesses over the years, including a department store, cafe and printing press. Its adjacent counterpart, known as the “Office Building,” dates back to the early 20th century.

Adelman and Anthony’s proposal to demolish the structures highlights the historically rich city’s ongoing debate over preservation versus redevelopment. While the owners argue for the economic feasibility of new construction, community leaders advocate for their retention and restoration.

Leticia Sánchez, co-chair of the Historic Westside Residents Association, urged the owners to explore alternatives such as historic tax credits to help with funding. City officials have requested further evidence of economic hardship before considering the demolition request, the outlet reported.

The dispute echoes previous conflicts over historic buildings in the area, including the recent case of the Whitt Printing Company building and the former Fannie Porter brothel site. As stakeholders grapple with competing interests, the fate of San Antonio’s architectural heritage hangs in the balance.

The Historic and Design Review Commission is expected to address the demolition application in the coming weeks.

—Quinn Donoghue