What Changed
On October 11, 2026, the San Antonio Historic and Design Review Commission approved design plans for a small pocket park and an outdoor podcasting studio at 115 Plaza de Armas. The project, known as the Calder Alley “Secret Garden” TVSA Project, will replace a surface parking lot that had been identified as an urban heat island. The approval marks the first step toward creating a new public‑access media facility that will serve TVSA Public, San Antonio’s public‑access television channel.
Design and Features
The studio will be constructed with a brick veneer and aluminum‑clad wood windows. Cast stone window sills, metal screening, and a steel entrance canopy will provide durability and a contemporary aesthetic. A living wall of plants will be integrated into the design, offering both visual interest and environmental benefits. Utility screening will conceal necessary infrastructure while maintaining a clean appearance. The pocket park will complement the studio, providing a green space for visitors and a backdrop for outdoor programming.
Historical Context
Plaza de Armas has been a site of historical significance since the early 18th century. In 1722, military authorities established a presidio on the ground to defend the region. Archaeological monitoring and test excavations conducted by UTSA’s Center for Archaeological Research between April 2013 and November 2014 uncovered preserved sheet midden trash deposits dating from 1722 to 1850. These findings underscore the area’s long‑standing role in San Antonio’s development and highlight the importance of preserving its heritage while introducing new public amenities.
Funding and Budget
The project will be financed through San Antonio’s Public, Educational and Governmental (PEG) Fund, a special revenue account that collects cable franchise fees and is restricted to capital and infrastructure costs. The city’s proposed FY 2027 budget projects the PEG fund balance drawing down to $5,370,439 from a $10,169,020 beginning balance in FY 2026. While the exact construction costs and timeline remain unknown, the funding mechanism provides a clear financial pathway for the project’s development.
Business and Community Impact
By adding a dedicated podcasting studio, TVSA Public will be able to expand its programming, host interviews, and produce events that engage the community. The studio’s outdoor setting will allow for public‑facing content that can be recorded in a natural environment, enhancing the authenticity of local storytelling. The pocket park will serve as a gathering place for residents, offering a green respite in the heart of downtown and encouraging foot traffic to nearby businesses.
Technical and Environmental Benefits
Replacing a surface parking lot with a pocket park and studio addresses the urban heat island effect that has been a concern in the area. The living wall and plantings will absorb heat, reduce ambient temperatures, and improve air quality. The use of durable materials such as brick veneer and aluminum‑clad wood windows ensures low maintenance while providing a modern aesthetic that aligns with the historic character of Plaza de Armas.
Limitations and Uncertainties
Construction costs and a definitive timeline are not yet known, as the project is still in its design and regulatory approval phase. The PEG fund balance will be reduced in FY 2027, but the exact allocation to this project has not been finalized. Additionally, while archaeological monitoring has already identified historic deposits, any future excavation work will need to be carefully coordinated to preserve the site’s integrity.
Who May Be Affected
Local residents will benefit from increased green space and access to a new media facility. TVSA Public staff will gain a dedicated studio that can enhance production quality and outreach. Podcasters and community organizers will have a venue to host events and record content in a public setting. Businesses in the surrounding area may experience increased foot traffic as visitors come to the pocket park and studio.
What to Watch Next
Following the commission’s approval, the city will need to secure final regulatory approvals and finalize the design. Once the design is complete, the project will move into the construction phase, at which point the PEG fund will be disbursed. Monitoring of the site’s archaeological resources will continue to ensure that any construction work respects the historic layers uncovered by UTSA’s Center for Archaeological Research.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of the new studio? The studio is intended to support programming, interviews, events, and public‑facing content for TVSA Public, San Antonio’s public‑access television channel.
- How will the project be funded? Funding comes from San Antonio’s Public, Educational and Governmental (PEG) Fund, a special revenue account that collects cable franchise fees and is restricted to capital and infrastructure costs.
- When will construction begin? The exact construction timeline is not yet known; the project is still in the design and regulatory approval phase.
- Are there archaeological concerns? Yes. The site has historic deposits dating from 1722 to 1850, and any construction will need to coordinate with archaeological monitoring to preserve these resources.
- What are the environmental benefits? Replacing a parking lot with a pocket park and living wall reduces the urban heat island effect, improves air quality, and provides green space for the community.