After years of anticipation, San Antonio’s Hemisfair will finally debut Phase Two of Civic Park on March 18. The upgrades within Hemisfair's Western Zone will significantly enhance urban connectivity while providing another showpiece public space.

The new section links Hemisfair with Alamo and Market Streets, one of the city’s busiest pedestrian intersections. The pathway promises to ease foot traffic during citywide celebrations like Fiesta while providing a bridge to downtown lodging and restaurant options.

"Civic Park serves as San Antonio’s front porch, a gathering place for the city’s biggest celebrations for generations to come,” said Hemisfair CEO Andres Andujar in a release. “As a vibrant centerpiece of downtown, it will bring people together, foster community connections, and create lasting memories for residents and visitors alike."

Phase Two of Civic Park is divided into four distinct spaces:

• Source Plaza: The main entrance from downtown blends limestone seat walls, shaded terraces, and native plantings to create an appealing hub of public life. It will also serve as a gateway to Hemisfair and a proposed future entertainment district.
• The Promenade: Shaded with Mexican Sycamores, the pedestrian walkway joins Civic Park and Yanaguana Garden — providing a seamless path from downtown to Southtown.
• The Zócalo: The hardscape terrace draws inspiration from Southwestern acequias, or historical community irrigation canals, incorporating a limestone fountain and tilework. The moveable tables and chairs will accommodate daily use and larger gatherings.
• The Stage: The performance space at the north end of the Great Lawn will be ideal for concerts and other large-scale city happenings.

Each of the designs were mindful of sustainability. The drought-hardy native plantings, including 59 large trees, drink from a recycled water system built during Phase One. The hope is to decrease the green space’s reliance on potable water, the city says.

Hemisfair will welcome the public to an official ribbon-cutting ceremony March 18 at 10 am. Guests will get the chance to walk through the park’s newest additions and see the city’s multi-year vision come to life.