Are the Spurs quietly planning a new arena downtown?

A potential new arena in the heart of downtown gives San Antonio Spurs fans more reason to be excited about the future beyond budding superstar Victor Wembanyama.

Spurs Sports & Entertainment has confirmed ongoing negotiations with the city and other stakeholders regarding a significant economic development project at the Institute of Texan Cultures site at Hemisfair, the San Antonio Express-News reported. 

The downtown location has long drawn speculation as a potential site for a new arena for the NBA franchise.

In a letter to the Texas Office of the Attorney General, the Spurs disclosed its involvement in negotiations while arguing against the release of information requested by the Express-News under Texas’ open records law. The requested communications pertain to the property at 801 East César E. Chávez Boulevard, involving the Spurs, the city and the University of Texas at San Antonio.

The documents in question relate to the potential purchase, lease and development of the property. However, specific details of the project have not been finalized, and premature disclosure could adversely affect negotiation positions.

Financial terms and incentives for the project are still being discussed, with the Spurs emphasizing confidentiality measures to limit information access within the organization. Similarly, the city is withholding information, citing ongoing internal deliberations regarding the project’s viability, economic impact and available options. Ultimately, recommendations and final agreements will be proposed to the San Antonio City Council.

UTSA’s recent decision to demolish the Texas Pavilion, one of the last remnants of the 1968 World’s Fair, has further fueled speculation about redevelopment.

If plans proceed for a downtown arena, public financing will likely play a significant role, potentially requiring voter approval depending on the financing method. The cost estimates for such a project range upwards of $1 billion, the outlet reported. 

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The prospect of the Spurs returning to downtown has garnered support and criticism. Proponents highlight the potential for increased economic activity, enhanced fan experience and synergy with surrounding businesses. However, critics question the economic impact of sports facilities and the level of public subsidies required.

While HemisFair Arena housed the Spurs for its first 20 seasons, subsequent moves to larger venues like the Alamodome and its current home Frost Bank Center, east of downtown, have prompted ongoing discussions about the team’s arena needs and its impact on downtown revitalization efforts.

—Quinn Donoghue