Downtown Study, ICE Debate and St. Patrick’s Festivities Lead Local Headlines
San Antonio, TX – March 13, 2026 – City leaders advance a $3.7M downtown study, mayor addresses ICE concerns, and St. Patrick’s plans go green.
It’s been a busy stretch at City Hall and across downtown, with major planning decisions, immigration concerns, and weekend celebrations all making headlines.
City Advances $3.7M Downtown-East Side Study
San Antonio City Council has approved a $3.7 million contract to study how to better connect downtown and the East Side. The effort is part of the broader vision for Project Marvel, the proposed sports and entertainment district.
The nine-month study will explore ways to reduce or rethink the stretch of I-37 that currently divides the two areas. City leaders say the goal is to improve mobility for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians while encouraging economic development. Public input is expected to begin in April.
Mayor Speaks on ICE Facility, César Chávez March
Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones addressed concerns this week about conditions at the ICE detention facility in Dilley, following reports of family separations and health issues involving detainees. She praised members of the local congressional delegation who recently visited the facility.
The mayor also discussed the cancellation of the annual César E. Chávez March for Justice, a longtime community event. The decision has sparked disappointment among supporters, though city officials say conversations about the march’s future are ongoing.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations Turn the River Green
On a lighter note, St. Patrick’s Day festivities are set to fill downtown with music, parades and plenty of green. The San Antonio River will once again be dyed green as part of weekend celebrations along the River Walk.
Events include parades, live entertainment, food vendors and family-friendly activities at La Villita and surrounding areas. With mild weather in the forecast, organizers expect strong turnout as the city leans into one of its most colorful spring traditions.
Sources
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/03/11/city-awards-37m-contract-for-downtown-east-side-connection-study/
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/03/11/ksat-qa-mayor-gina-ortiz-jones-discusses-dilley-detention-facility-cesar-chavez-march-cancelation/
https://www.expressnews.com/entertainment/article/st-patricks-day-san-antonio-2026-22062846.php
