Early Voting Opens In San Antonio As Project Marvel Heads To The Polls
Voters weigh a downtown Spurs arena and wider ‘Project Marvel’ plan.
Early voting is underway in Bexar County, and the city’s long-debated Project Marvel is finally in the hands of San Antonio voters.
The sweeping initiative — anchored by a new downtown arena for the San Antonio Spurs — is part of a multi-phase plan city officials say could reshape downtown’s future.
Voters have from October 20 to October 31 to cast early ballots before Election Day on November 4, when they will decide on two propositions that could shape San Antonio’s future, including its downtown and overall growth as a city.
“If the arena brings people, my business benefits year-round.”
— Dora Ramirez, local small business owner
What’s on the ballot
The proposals, known as Propositions A and B, would direct revenue from an increase in hotel and car rental taxes toward the public portion of the arena’s funding. Under the plan, the city and county would contribute up to $312 million from visitor-based taxes, while Spurs Sports & Entertainment (SS&E) has vowed to contribute $500 million and agreed to cover potential cost overruns.
City officials insist no property tax money would be used. Supporters see that as a win-win for San Antonio.
“This is how we grow without burdening our residents,” said Robert Nguyen, 28, who works in hospitality near the River Walk. “Visitors help pay for something that keeps San Antonio competitive. More events in the city mean more work for all of us.”
Skeptics question cost of the arena
A recent UTSA poll shows public opinion on the Spurs arena is divided. While residents support downtown growth, enthusiasm decreases when the conversation turns to the arena’s cost.
“That money could go to schools, fixing the roads, or affordable housing,” said Beverly McClure, a community organizer on the East Side. “We’re being asked to give our money to a private project on the promise of benefits that aren’t guaranteed.”
Brandon Rivera, a lifelong San Antonian, says his concerns are more personal than a sports team.
“Downtown development often pushes out the people who lived here first,” he said. “I can’t vote for a plan that could raise the cost of living for my neighbors.”
Spurs, city leaders push for ‘transformational’ project
Former Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Spurs executives have called Project Marvel a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine downtown. Apart from basketball, they said the project can make San Antonio a hub for concerts, conventions, and community events — one designed to keep the team downtown and strengthen San Antonio’s national profile.
The proposed community benefits agreement is still being finalized, but is expected to outline hiring requirements, development programs, and investments in small businesses around the arena.
Project Marvel Explained: Props A & B
Prop A:
Extend venue taxes to support convention center and rodeo ground improvements.
Prop B:
Authorizes funds for a new Spurs arena in the form of Bexar County’s existing 5% car rental tax and Bexar County’s portion of the local Hotel Occupancy Tax by increasing it from 1.75% to 2%.
Important Details:
- $500 million contribution from Spurs Sports & Entertainment
- No property taxes are used for funding.
What’s next?
Voters can cast ballots at any location during early voting, with an ID required. Full details, including sample ballots and hours, are available at bexar.org/elections
No matter the outcome, Project Marvel has already sparked a rare conversation about San Antonio’s identity — whether the city wants to double down on its downtown ambitions or take a more cautious, community-first approach.
