The City of San Antonio has partnered with several organizations to launch Commons at Acequia Trails, a housing project aimed at aiding individuals and families experiencing chronic homelessness. As reported by the city's official news release, the initiative promises over 200 Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) homes in District 3. The groundbreaking ceremony signaled the city's dedication to addressing the persistent issue of homelessness through stable housing and comprehensive support services.
Located at 7222 Old Corpus Christi Road, the Commons at Acequia Trails isn't merely about putting a roof over heads; it embeds a full-fledged support system into its foundation. Equipped with a 10,000-square-foot Supportive Services Center, the future residents will have access to essentials such as primary healthcare, behavioral health services, job training, and social activities. Mayor Ron Nirenberg emphasized the city's collective spirit, saying, “Today, we break ground on a facility that is a bold declaration that San Antonio refuses to accept chronic homelessness," as noted by the city's official website.
The PSH model is at the core of Commons at Acequia Trails, combining affordable housing with voluntary support services. This approach is known for respecting the individual's agency and focusing on long-term recovery rather than short-term fixes. District 3 Councilmember Phyllis Viagran spoke to the resolve and collaboration that made this project possible, stating, "Nothing worth having comes easy, and this project is the result of incredible dedication from all involved," according to the city's official website.
This $56.2 million development draws from a blend of funding sources, including private investments, municipal bonds, and federal funds. Veronica Garcia, the Neighborhood and Housing Services Director, highlighted the project's community backing by saying, "Commons at Acequia Trails is a project that turns vision into action—made possible by the trust of our community and the dedication of our coalition of partners," as mentioned in the same news release. Residents will also benefit from the proximity to public transport, strengthening the city's larger commitment to fostering accessibility and opportunity.
As the city works to meet its Strategic Housing Implementation Plan (SHIP), which calls for the addition of 1,000 units of site-based PSH over the next decade, Commons at Acequia Trails is a step forward in providing stable housing solutions for those in dire need. Nikisha J. Baker, President and CEO of SAMMinistries, spoke to the initiative's broader purpose, remarking, "This development is aimed at providing housing and resources for our community’s most vulnerable — helping our city meet the goals of its Strategic Housing Implementation Plan and at the same time reducing unsheltered homelessness and relieving pressure on overcrowded shelters," as per the city's official website. Scheduled for completion in the Fall of 2027, the project marks a significant milestone in the city's fight against chronic homelessness.
