Arboretum San Antonio revealed its 2025 Master Plan on May 10, a multimillion-dollar plan to transform a former golf course into a breathtaking modern greenspace. Parts of the tree sanctuary, Alamo City's first arboretum, are expected to debut in 2028.

"Our master plan isn't just a design; it is a commitment to inclusivity, education, and sustainability," said Arboretum President and CEO Adriana Quiñones in the announcement. "It is our roadmap to ensure the Arboretum grows with the land and the community. Our goal is to create a sanctuary that honors the legacy of our land and serves as a beacon for future generations."

Designed by Boston-based Sasaki, the finished arboretum will sit on 200 acres at 4226 S.E. Military Dr. The total cost will be between $30 million and $50 million, with $7.3 million coming from Bexar County. The City of San Antonio may provide up to $25 million in funding.

The Event Lawn includes an amphitheater for outdoor concerts and events.Sasaki.com

  

Sasaki.com

The Pond Plaza combines gorgeous views with stormwater management.

The plan melds the best aspects from three proposals Sasaki put up for public review in October 2024: "Wild San Antonio," "Testing Grounds," and "Community Crossroads."

Aiming to be a mixed-use space, Arboretum San Antonio weds community interaction with natural growth. An amphitheater nestled against Salado Creek will provide space for performances, lectures, and other events. A nearby education and training center will offer classes and other opportunities to study the surrounding area and field stations.

And of course, there will be trees. Lots of trees. The canopy of the arboretum will include old-growth Texas persimmon, ash, pecan, and centennial live oaks. Visitors will learn about the importance of tree immigration during hot Texas summers and have an opportunity for birdwatching. The plans also include a pond plaza and a savannah area highlighting the natural ecology of the Edwards Plateau, Blackland Prairie, Post Oak Savanna, and South Texas Plains as they meet in the San Antonio watershed.

Trails offer a chance to be immersed in a "cathedral of trees."Sasaki.com

A small Veterans Grove, circled by live oaks, will honor the sacrifices of San Antonians who have served in the armed forces.

Planning for Arboretum San Antonio has taken a year, during which public comment contributed to the final plan. Former San Antonio Mayor and U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Henry Cisneros founded the project. To prepare, he visited dozens of arboretums across the United States, incorporating the best aspects into brief.