SAN ANTONIO – As the San Antonio Spurs advance to the second round of the NBA playoffs, significant developments are also unfolding regarding the team’s future home. The San Antonio City Council is set to vote on two crucial contracts related to the proposed multi-billion-dollar sports and entertainment district in Hemisfair, aptly named “Project Marvel.”
At the heart of this ambitious vision is a new arena for the Spurs, but Project Marvel encompasses much more. Plans include mixed-use development, potential expansion of the Henry B. González Convention Center, and the transformation of the John Woods Courthouse into a vibrant live entertainment venue, among other initiatives.
To oversee the development activities within this district, the city intends to award a contract to Accenture Infrastructure and Capital Projects. This contract will appoint them as the executive program manager (EPM) for the project. The initial contract, valued at $6 million, covers the first phase of development, running through March 2027, with options to renew for additional one-year increments until September 2031.
In addition, the council will consider a one-year, $350,000 contract with MuniCap, a Maryland-based public finance consulting firm. MuniCap’s role will involve conducting a cost-of-service study for the district, analyzing the financial implications of providing essential city services, including policing, fire protection, traffic management, and park maintenance.
This study will also forecast the expected revenue generated by the district, offering insights into new opportunities for financial growth for the city. As noted by a city official, “These are the sorts of questions you ask before you make a decision, because now in hindsight, the fact that you’re asking afterwards just kind of seems like you’re trying to play catch up with this whole transparency, accountability business, and that it was a foregone conclusion beforehand, even if that was the worst-kept secret in the room.”
Both consulting firms were selected through a competitive process, but their contracts still require approval from the city council. In addition to voting on these contracts, city staff are expected to provide council members with a comprehensive update on the proposed district, highlighting the potential impact and benefits of Project Marvel for San Antonio.
