San Antonio residents demand slower transit-oriented development process to prevent displacement

The City Council of San Antonio convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss critical issues surrounding housing and transit-oriented development (TOD) in the community. The meeting highlighted concerns from residents and advocates regarding the implications of proposed developments on existing neighborhoods.

The session began with a passionate statement from a community advocate who emphasized that housing is a fundamental human right. They pointed out that housing instability often intersects with other issues such as transportation, healthcare, and wage disparity, disproportionately affecting people of color. The advocate expressed skepticism about the benefits of transit-oriented development, arguing that past experiences have shown that such plans often lead to mass displacement and increased living costs for current residents. They called for a more cautious approach, urging the council to slow down the process, clearly define terms, and ensure that developments genuinely benefit existing communities rather than attracting new, wealthier residents.

Following this, Ray Morales, a retired architect and member of various community organizations, echoed these sentiments. He criticized the rushed nature of the TOD proposal, stating that it had not adequately included neighborhood input until late in the process. Morales questioned the urgency of the proposal, asserting that the complexity of the changes being considered warranted more time for thorough public engagement and consideration.

The discussions underscored a growing concern among community members about the potential negative impacts of development initiatives on vulnerable populations. The council's deliberations on these matters are expected to continue, with calls for more inclusive planning processes and protections for existing residents. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further written comments from the public, indicating an ongoing dialogue about the future of housing and development in San Antonio.