In The News

San Antonio (September 1, 2020) – San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is the first airport in the world to purchase and employ the Xenex LightStrike robot – the only ultraviolet (UV) room disinfection technology proven to deactivate SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19.  

“The health and safety of our employees and passengers has always been our number-one priority,” said Jesus Saenz, Jr., Director of Airports for the City of San Antonio.  “The acquisition of the Xenex LightStrike robot is just the latest innovative enhancement to our daily operations and efforts to ensure that traveling through San Antonio International Airport is the easiest and safest experience passengers can encounter.” 

The LightStrike robot incorporates cutting-edge technology through bursts of intense UV light to destroy hard-to-kill viruses and bacteria found in common places and hard-to-clean spaces.  SAT is the first airport to deploy LightStrike robot technology from Xenex – a renowned world-leader in infection prevention and disinfection technology.  LightStrike technology is used in healthcare facilities to destroy microscopic pathogens often found on high-touch surfaces that can cause healthcare associated infections.  In testing performed at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute – one of the world’s leading independent research institutes working exclusively on infectious disease – the LightStrike robot destroyed SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in two minutes.  SAT is now bringing this same level of disinfection to the commercial airport industry.  

“COVID-19 nearly caused the aviation industry to stop in its tracks,” said Dr. Mark Stibich, Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of Xenex.  “Planning for the disinfection of public spaces – especially commercial airports – is a major priority to reduce the risk of disease transmission.  Putting an effective infection prevention infrastructure in place is essential, and we are proud to partner with San Antonio International Airport in leading the aviation industry in this effort.”

Using environmentally-friendly pulsed xenon, the portable LightStrike can disinfect an area in less than 10-15 minutes without warm-up or cool-down time.  This will allow the quick and easy deployment of the LightStrike robot to disinfect high-traffic areas without a disruption to passengers.  Operated by the airport’s terminal services staff, it can be used anywhere in the airport – to include jet bridges, gate areas, ticketing counters, baggage claim, concessions, elevators and restrooms – where there are high-touch surfaces or high volumes of traffic.

In 2012, the city of San Antonio recruited Xenex’s headquarters and manufacturing operations from Austin to San Antonio.  Since that time, and with the city’s support, Xenex has continued to grow and has established itself as a world-leader in mobile, UV disinfection technology.  “I am excited to see the use of innovative technology at the airport to address the ever-evolving challenges in the fight against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg.  “Our aviation team’s forward-looking moves, such as using this UV disinfection technology and partnering with San Antonio-based Xenex, will position our city well for economic growth now and in the years to come.”  

“Our goal is to provide the safest environment for our passengers.  We already have a comprehensive sanitization and disinfection process in place,” said Saenz.  “We are excited to add the LightStrike to our current health enhancements to complement our sanitation stations, social distancing measures and other safety protocols.  We are proud to be a leader in the aviation industry when it comes to health and safety, and to be the first airport to employ the LightStrike.”

The airport plans to hold a city-wide naming contest to name the LightStrike Robot.  The naming contest will be a part of the airport’s social media efforts designed to restore consumer confidence in commercial air travel and reduce fears of contracting COVID-19 while at the airport.   

For more information on the airport’s health and safety protocols, visit www.Flysantonio.com.  

To schedule a demonstration, contact Rich Stinson at rich.stinson@sanantonio.gov. 

#

San Antonio: America’s 21st Century City

San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. It is one of the strongest fiscally managed cities in the country with a vibrant business climate and a ‘AAA’ general obligation bond rating from all three major rating agencies. San Antonio is a city that nurtures entrepreneurship, encourages investment and funds infrastructure. America’s seventh-largest city offers growth opportunities in bioscience, financial services, aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare. In 2015, UNESCO designated San Antonio’s 18th century Spanish colonial missions as a World Heritage Site – the first in Texas. Proudly called Military City, USA®, San Antonio is home to one of the largest populations of active duty military, veterans and crucial military commands. In 2018, the city celebrates its 300th anniversary, honoring its rich past and a bright future focused on innovation and livability. For more information, visit www.sanantonio.gov.

SAN ANTONIO (Oct. 10, 2019) – The public-private nonprofit Visit San Antonio, the sales and marketing arm for the City of San Antonio, has been selected by its employees as a Top Workplace for 2019, it was announced today.

The organization was recognized at an awards luncheon held at the J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa, and will be showcased along with other winners in a Top Workplaces special section to be published in the San Antonio Express-News on Sunday, Oct. 13. The newspaper sponsors and announces the annual awards.

“The fact that this award is given out based on the responses of employees makes it particularly special,” said VIA Metropolitan President & CEO, Jeffrey C. Arndt, chairman of the Visit San Antonio Board of Directors. “It is the organization’s staff that is the foundation of everything it does, and this recognition reflects the familial atmosphere that exists at Visit San Antonio.”

This is the 11^th year for the Express-News to team up with Workplace Dynamics, an independent search firm, to recognized the best places to work in the San Antonio area. Winning employers are chosen through employee surveys on a variety of workplace topics. Survey results are then verified by an independent organization.

“Visit San Antonio takes great pride in its ability to attract and retain top talent,” said Casandra Matej, President & CEO for Visit San Antonio. “We always say that we sell fun in San Antonio, which is one of the country’s truly authentic and wonderful destinations, and that we have fun doing it. We take great pride in the work we do, but we also truly enjoy each other and this organization.”

Visit San Antonio, which includes 87 employees, works daily to position San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. The city welcomes 39 million visitors a year as part of a tourism and hospitality industry that generates $15.2 billion in economic impact.

For more information on the organization and San Antonio as a destination, visit www.VisitSanAntonio.com.

San Antonio (September 26, 2019) – San Antonio International Airport (SAT) was pleased to learn that it earned a sixth-place finish in the J.D. Power 2019 North America Airport Satisfaction Study.^SM SAT was the only Texas airport to receive high scores in the Medium Airport Statistics Index Ranking.

SAT achieved a ranking of #6 with a total of 813 points.  This is a significant improvement from #13 and 785 points in 2018. For greater context, overall passenger satisfaction with North American airports has risen only a single point (on a 1,000 point scale) year over year, according to JD Power.

“This is impressive, very impressive,” said Russ Handy, Aviation Director for the City of San Antonio.  “Just last year we were ranked thirteenth in this study and now we have moved into the sixth position.  That is a significant jump and it shows that all of our new initiatives to make flying easier are beginning to pay off, and our passengers are noticing.”

The study, which is now in its fourteenth year, measures overall traveler satisfaction and tracks data by looking at six factors:

• Terminal Facilities
• Airport Accessibility
• Baggage Claim
• Security Check
• Check-in/Baggage Check
• Food, Beverage and Retail

Travelers were asked a series of questions and based on the data collected, San Antonio International Airport scored very high in the following categories:

• Attractiveness of Airport Grounds
• Ease of Arriving and Leaving Both Terminals
• Amount of Time Required for Security Check-in
• Cleanliness of Baggage Area
• Traffic Flow at Check-in/Baggage Area
• Cleanliness of Terminal Concourses and Hallways
• Ease of Getting to Gate
• WiFi Service
• Clarity of Signs/Directions
• Ease of Arriving to the Terminal
• Courtesy of Restaurant Staff
• Timeliness of Orders
• Cleanliness of Restaurants

Constantly seeking new ways to improve and enhance the passenger experience, SAT has implemented a number of noticeable enhancements to the airport over the past two years, and this significant increase in passenger ranking indicates the enhancements have been well received by the traveling public. Among the many passenger enhancements are SAT Live and The Galleries at SAT – two new programs that feature musicians and artists with local, regional and national appeal – designed not only to reflect the sounds, sights and culture of San Antonio, but to make the entire travelling experience pleasant and stress-free.  New terminal and garage wayfinding, such as the park assist technology in the short term garage and increased signage, makes arriving and maneuvering through the airport and terminal much faster and easier.  Other  features designed to make flying easier for passengers with special needs include free AIRA service to assist passengers will visual impairments, increasing the number of ADA parking spaces – to exceed what is mandated by law – to serve a large passenger base requiring accessible parking, and translation services for international travelers.   

“This ranking is a great honor, as it recognizes our collective efforts to provide the best passenger experience possible,” said Karen D. Ellis, Chief Customer Experience Officer.  “We want everything associated with flying to be easier at San Antonio – what we call from bedside to planeside – from start to finish and everything in between, we want flying through San Antonio to be the simplest, fastest and most enjoyable experience possible.  This ranking shows us that our passengers are noticing and appreciate our efforts.”   

Ellis says plans are already underway “to add an interactive and educational play area – or  KidZone – for kids; curbside valet parking service; a brand new airport website that is more user friendly, and more food, beverage and retail options that will add both national brand favorites and local flare – all designed to continue to make the customer experience stress free, entertaining and even more enjoyable.”

“We are very excited with a ranking of 6^th – and we are very confident that our plans for continuous improvement will produce an even higher ranking next year,” said Handy. 

J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services firm operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, consulting, training and customer satisfaction. Rankings are based on numerical scores, and not necessarily on statistical significance.

For more information on this report or to schedule an interview, please contact Tonya Hope at 210-207-1515.

###

San Antonio: America’s 21st Century City

San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. It is one of the strongest fiscally managed cities in the country, nurturing entrepreneurship, encouraging investment and funding infrastructure. America’s seventh-largest city offers a vibrant business climate and growth opportunities in bioscience, financial services, aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare. In 2015, UNESCO designated San Antonio’s 18th century Spanish colonial missions as a World Heritage Site – the first in Texas. Proudly called Military City, USA®, San Antonio is home to one of the largest populations of active duty military, veterans and crucial military commands. For more information, visit www.sanantonio.gov.

SAN ANTONIO (June 11, 2019) – Visit San Antonio has been named a 2019 Smart Stars Award Winner in the category of Best Convention Center or Destination Marketing Organization by Smart Meetings. The prestigious awards platform, now in its eighth year, celebrates meeting planners’ choices for hotels, resorts, properties, cruise lines and conference and convention centers worldwide.

Ranked against hundreds of exceptional peers, the award-winning properties and destinations were hand selected by Smart Meetings’ audience of meeting professionals in 35 distinguished categories, all critical to the success of their meetings and events.

Since its inception, the Smart Stars Awards have gained notoriety as an essential tool for today’s meeting planner community and a valuable resource for those who need recommendations of leading venues and destinations. These remarkable hospitality brands continue to reflect the highest standards of excellence in service, amenities and customer satisfaction.

“It is an honor to be recognized by Smart Meetings and meeting professionals with the Smart Stars Award,” said President & CEO of Visit San Antonio Casandra Matej. “This notable accolade is a testament to the passion, dedication and creativity of the Visit San Antonio team, and our commitment to world-class customer service.”

###

About Visit San Antonio

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 37 million visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $15.2 billion into the local economy and employing more than 140,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com.

Media Contact:    

Megan Lagrone
Visit San Antonio
MeganLagrone@VisitSanAntonio.com
(210) 244-2084

San Antonio (March 6, 2019) – San Antonio International Airport (SAT) received the top award for customer service – “Best Airport with 5-15 Million Passengers in North America” – from Airports Council International – World (ACI-W).  ACI-W, widely considered the benchmark in standards and evaluations within the aviation industry, revealed the winners of the renowned and coveted 2018 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards earlier today. These awards are highly regarded and considered one of a kind as it is based upon surveys of more than 650,000 passengers taken on the day of their travel in order to get current and accurate feedback on a number of service quality issues. 

“It is always our goal to put passengers first and it’s an honor to be recognized as one of the world’s best airports for the quality of our customer service,” said Russ Handy, Aviation Director for the City of San Antonio. “This is truly a significant achievement for the amazing team I have the privilege of serving with, and something that all stakeholders of SAT and our surrounding community should be very proud of. SAT has a world-wide reputation for our excellence in customer service.”

Each year, airports are rated based upon the findings of passenger surveys. The program measures passengers’ views of 34 key performance areas and is administered worldwide.

The airports that receive the highest results and demonstrate a commitment to providing excellent customer service are recognized annually with an ASQ award.

SAT scored high in overall satisfaction, ground transportation, check-in waiting time, efficiency of staff, courtesy at check-in, terminal cleanliness, ease of way-finding, Internet/Wi-Fi, safety and security.

SAT will be honored in September at the ASQ Forum and ACI Customer Experience Global Summit to be held in Bali, Indonesia.

###

San Antonio: America’s 21st Century City

San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. It is one of the strongest fiscally managed cities in the country, nurturing entrepreneurship, encouraging investment and funding infrastructure. America’s seventh-largest city offers a vibrant business climate and growth opportunities in bioscience, financial services, aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare. In 2015, UNESCO designated San Antonio’s 18th century Spanish colonial missions as a World Heritage Site – the first in Texas. Proudly called Military City, USA®, San Antonio is home to one of the largest populations of active duty military, veterans and crucial military commands. For more information, visit www.sanantonio.gov.

City Welcomed 37 Million Visitors in 2017

San Antonio’s hospitality industry saw significant gains in economic impact, visitor and employment numbers from 2015 to 2017, according to the results of a study released today at the Visit San Antonio Annual Meeting.

Research by Trinity University professors, Dr. Richard V. Butler and Dr. Mary E. Stefl, showed the economic impact of San Antonio’s hospitality industry in 2017 was $15.2 billion, a rise of $1.6 billion from two years before.  The San Antonio metro area welcomed 37 million visitors in 2017, 7.3 million more than in 2015.

The biennial study showed that tourism and hospitality remains a vibrant and growing segment of the San Antonio landscape, generating seismic impact in revenue and fees. In 2017, $213.7 million was contributed to the City of San Antonio and $419 million was produced for all local government entities, including Bexar County and school districts, among others.

Those funds, in turn, continue to help the city support projects like San Antonio River improvements, amateur sports facilities, cultural arts and historical preservation.

“This not only provides additional attractions for visitors, but also increases the quality of life for local San Antonians,” said Rusty Wallace, Area Managing Director of the Omni La Mansion Del Rio/Mokara Hotel and Spa.

“We continually evaluate the health of our industry, and results continue to show steady growth,” added Wallace, board chairman for Visit San Antonio. “This reinforces the ongoing value of tourism-focused economic development in San Antonio, the creation of thousands of hospitality jobs for our citizens and the substantial contribution of tax revenues to local government.”

The Trinity report showed that the hospitality industry employs 140,188 individuals, or 1 out of every 7 employed San Antonians. That’s an increase of approximately 9,400 workers from 2015. The annual payroll for those employees is $3.23 billion.

“Consider that many of the amenities and attractions that so many San Antonio residents enjoy each day are available to them due to the economic impact that visitors bring to the city,” said Casandra Matej, President & CEO of Visit San Antonio.

Of the 37 million annual visitors to the San Antonio metro area, 30.4 million come for leisure travel. A total of 23.1 million were overnight visitors.

The Trinity hospitality economic impact report originated 16 years ago, and is commissioned by the San Antonio Tourism Council, Visit San Antonio, San Antonio Hotel & Lodging Association and the San Antonio Restaurant Association.

“We are proud to work with our industry partners to highlight the tremendous impact this industry has on job creation and the economic stability of our city and our region,” San Antonio Hotel & Lodging Association President & CEO, Liza Barratachea said.

###

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes approximately 34 million visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing nearly $14 billion into the local economy annually and employing 122,500. More information about Visit San Antonio and its initiatives for hospitality partners can be found at Partners.VisitSanAntonio.com.

San Antonio, Texas (August 31, 2018) – Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, the premier Texas Hill Country resort located only 20-minutes away from downtown San Antonio, has announced the completion of a renovation to its Rogers-Wiseman Pavilion.  Through the renovation, the resort has converted the pavilion tent, which was previously used as a back-up option, to a full-use signature meeting and event space.

“After using the Rogers-Wiseman Pavilion as a back-up venue for several years, we started to notice that more and more groups were looking to book their events outdoors and surrounded by nature,” said John Hernstat, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa.  “With more groups expressing interest in the venue as their primary function space, we decided to renovate and update the tent to provide a truly unique and distinctive space that would showcase our beautiful Hill Country scenery while still providing full protection from the outdoor elements.”

Through the renovation, which was completed earlier this year, the Rogers-Wiseman Pavilion was outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides of the venue in order to allow natural lighting and to create a more open space showcasing the outdoor scenery.  The venue’s flooring was also updated with luxury vinyl tile to further reflect the elegant and rustic feel of the property.

Named in honor of the family who owned and operated a cattle ranch for more than a century on the land where resort now sits, the Rogers-Wiseman Pavilion was originally intended as a temporary venue space in 2010.  The resort turned the space into a permanent structure in 2014 with the addition of heating, air conditioning, and a sprinkler system for use as a back-up venue for outdoor events.  “With the warm summers and frequent rain showers our area sees during the spring and fall season, the pavilion is the perfect fit for planners who are looking for all of the comforts of hosting an indoor event, while being immersed in the Texas Hill Country, especially now with its newly-renovated design,” said Hernstat.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa features 100,000 square-feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event space.  In addition to the Rogers-Wiseman Pavilion, the property includes three grand ballrooms including the Independence Ballroom, Fredericksburg Ballroom, and Hill Country Ballroom which each have individual courtyard and garden pre-function space.

The property also offers the Luckenbach Pavilion, an outdoor covered terrace overlooking Hill Country Golf Club, as well as a free-standing retreat reminiscent of a quaint 1880s ranch house that can be utilized for private and VIP functions.

For more information or to book a meeting or event at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, please call 210 520 4036 or e-mail SANHC-RFP@hyatt.com.

About Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the AAA Four-Diamond Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa is nestled upon 300 acres of the historic Rogers-Wiseman family ranch, just 16 miles from the San Antonio International Airport and famous downtown River Walk.  The 500-room resort offers casual elegance and authentic Texas hospitality, while beautifully blending the convenience of the city with the peaceful charm of the Texas Hill Country.

Resort amenities include the full-service Windflower – The Hill Country Spa, featuring 21-treatment rooms with world-class services, a five-acre water park with a FlowRider® wave machine, two-story waterslide, four swimming pools, country-style lazy river, more than 100,000 sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting space, and much more.  A variety of excellent on-site food and beverage options are available, including award-winning Antlers Lodge, offering a unique Texas dining experience that overlooks Hill Country Golf Club, the resort’s lushly landscaped 27-hole Arthur Hill-designed golf course.  Windflower – The Hill Country Spa, Antlers Lodge, and Hill Country Golf Club are available for both resort guests and the general public to enjoy.  For reservations or information, contact 210 647 1234 or visit us at hillcountry.regency.hyatt.com.

About Hyatt Regency

The Hyatt Regency brand prides itself on connecting travelers to who and what matters most to them. More than 175 conveniently located Hyatt Regency urban and resort locations in over 30 countries around the world serve as the go-to gathering space for every occasion – from efficient business meetings to memorable family vacations. The brand offers a one-stop experience that puts everything guests need right at their fingertips. Hyatt Regency hotels and resorts offer a full range of services and amenities, including the space to work, engage or relax; notable culinary experiences; technology-enabled ways to collaborate; and expert event planners who can take care of every detail. For more information, please visit hyattregency.com. Follow @HyattRegency on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and tag photos with #AtHyattRegency.

Luxury hotel gets a breath of fresh air while staying true to its heritage

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (Oct. 18, 2018) – Mokara Hotel & Spa’s newly renovated lobby and meetings spaces take inspiration from the luxury hotel’s rich history, celebrating it through new modern designs. Formerly the L. Frank Saddlery Building, the spirit of Mokara’s previous life can now be seen through a modern lens with fresh interiors and commissioned artwork.

The use of indigenous materials throughout, like leather sofas and cowhide throw pillows, along with custom touches like metal cap details on the restaurant banquettes, pay homage to the hotel’s 19^th-century roots, with an elevated sense of luxury. New Axminster carpets feature sienna colors found in red clay and gold to mimic sunsets and creams that represent the limestone walls on the River Walk, tying the hotel to its natural surroundings. The small details, down to the rope, saddle and stirrup used in the custom carpets, bring the hotel’s former life into modern times.

Mokara is also pleased to announce the opening of the Tejas Boardroom, a new, 222 square-foot space for meetings inspired by the Spanish history of San Antonio. The room features rich, tall-back Spanish-inspired carved leather chairs gathered around a state-of-the-art conference table with power sources and connection to a new large screen television.

“All elements of the renovation connect the guest to the history of the L. Frank Saddlery building and surrounding landscape, transporting them back in time to when the Saddlery was in operation,” said Laura McKoy, creative director + vice president of interior design for Omni Hotels & Resorts.

Led by Sypult Rogers Studio, the interior design now showcases custom pieces, including new Axminster carpets, antiques and objects, many of which are native to Texas. Particularly unique and on display in the new ballroom is a custom-commissioned metal 3D sculpture of an open framed saddle, further strengthening the rich ties to the property.

“We hope that these freshened rooms and inviting spaces inspire every person who walks through our doors to reflect on the rich history found within our walls,” said Rusty Wallace, area managing director and general manager for the hotel.

Mokara Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel situated on the iconic San Antonio River Walk. To book a reservation, call (210) 396-5800 or visit https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-antonio-mokara.

ABOUT MOKARA HOTEL & SPA

The Mokara Hotel & Spa, San Antonio’s only Forbes Four-Star Hotel & Spa, is the companion property to the illustrious Omni La Mansión del Rio, both of which have been owned and operated by Omni Hotels & Resorts since 2006.  With its stunning views of the tranquil River Walk in downtown San Antonio, Mokara blends a serene setting with relaxed sophistication to bring a guest experience where the exceptional is always included.  In addition to the acclaimed 17,000-square-foot Mokara Spa, the property 

Collaboration is big business in San Antonio. In a sustained effort to attract high-tech companies and large events, the City of San Antonio is actively promoting the convergence of its advanced industries and spirit of collaboration across the public and private sectors.

Read More. 

Women have contributed influential chapters of the Texas story since day one, from 19th century leaders like Jane Long, the “Mother of Texas,” and Susana Dickinson, “The Lady of the Alamo,” to Carrie Marcus, the dynamic young saleswoman who married Abraham Lincoln Neiman in 1905. Marcus later became the face and style—and chairman of the board—for the legendary Neiman Marcus store. Their prominence reaches across all industries—including meetings and events.

Here, five women share what it means to lead the way in Texas. Read More. 

San Antonio is investing heavily in the infrastructure of the downtown core and adjacent neighborhoods to provide even more opportunities for convention attendees to explore and engage in San Antonio’s unique communities and authentic culture. 

Read More. 

First phase and segment opened to the public on May 5, 2018

SAN ANTONIO – The first segment of the much-anticipated San Pedro Creek Culture Park – a one-of-a-kind urban greenspace located on the western edge of downtown San Antonio – officially debuted to the public on Saturday, May 5, 2018. The world-class linear park is the result of a joint effort by Bexar County, the San Antonio River Authority and the City of San Antonio to transform San Pedro Creek into a restored natural creek habitat and greenspace. Combining purpose with beauty, San Pedro Creek Culture Park weaves public art and architectural design into historic preservation, flood control, water quality and ecosystem restoration.

“Through the revitalization of San Pedro Creek, we are inviting people to connect with our community’s vibrant history and culture,” said Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff. “Bexar County was founded along the banks of San Pedro Creek and the San Pedro Creek Culture Park celebrates and expresses the culture, history and natural qualities of Bexar County through its beautiful design and artwork.”

The first phase and segment of the San Pedro Creek Culture Park – stretching from the flood tunnel inlet at N. Santa Rosa Street near Fox Tech High School to Houston Street – was celebrated with a full day community event and evening illumination ceremony, which drew thousands to the paseos along the revitalized creek.

 “The San Antonio River Authority gets a tremendous amount of joy bringing these types of projects to fruition for the community,” said San Antonio River Authority Board Chair Mike Lackey. “It’s been a challenging in terms of designing and constructing a linear park in the middle of downtown San Antonio but seeing the transformation of the Creek gives us the energy and excitement to continue working on these types of once-in-a-lifetime endeavors.”

Exemplifying beauty with a purpose, the San Pedro Creek Culture Park serves as vital infrastructure for a growing downtown. By increasing the depth and width of the existing channel, the project removes 30 acres from the 100-year flood plain, safely conveying floodwaters within the San Pedro Creek banks. The project also improves water quality in a highly urbanized segment of the downtown watershed through the use of low-impact development features, including bioswales and storm water interceptors. In addition to creating a more functional waterway, the San Pedro Creek Culture Park returns the creek to a more natural state, benefitting the native flora and fauna.

Public art provides a beautiful backdrop to the restored creek, telling the story of our community through contemporary art and cultural programming. The first segment of the Culture Park features four tile murals designed by prominent San Antonio artists – Adriana Garcia, Katie Pell, Alex Rubio and Joe Lopez – that commemorate the rich and interweaving cultures that define San Antonio and Bexar County. Additional artwork commissions include storytelling through historical text and poetry by John Phillip Santos, ceramic artwork representing the historical nature of the nearby street names by Diana Kersey and colorful tiles by Michael Menchaca inspired by the people, culture and history of San Antonio.

“Bexar County has invested in many vital projects to improve the lives of our residents, but no other project has been more prominent and culturally meaningful than the creation of the San Pedro Creek Culture Park,” said Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo. “The vision of the Bexar County Commissioners Court to create a space where local citizens and visitors could learn and appreciate the roots of local heritage and culture is being realized with the opening of this first segment.”

Visitors can navigate the San Pedro Creek Culture Park with the help of a mobile app, which includes a variety of ways to learn about and interact with the creek. Available on Android and iOS, the app features a customizable 18-stop audio tour as well as extensive plant and animal lists for those who want to learn more about the native flora and fauna of the creek.

In total, the San Pedro Creek Culture Park encompasses a total of four phases, with three segments in the first phase. The second segment, which spans from Houston Street to Nueva Street is currently under construction. When the four phases are completed, the San Pedro Creek Culture Park will span 2.2 miles through downtown.

To learn more about the San Pedro Creek Culture Park, including planned programming along the Creek, visit SPCculturepark.com.

###

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Monica Trevino-Ortega
San Antonio River Authority
210-204-7875

Anamaria Suescun-Fast
The DeBerry Group
210-363-2673

San Antonio, Tex. (March 21, 2018) – Grand Hyatt San Antonio, a luxury hotel located on San Antonio’s famous River Walk, announces its 10th anniversary on March 22, 2018.  Built in 2008, the hotel has accommodated more than three million guests, hosted more than 5,000 meetings, and has served millions of patrons in its bars and restaurants since opening.  To complement the anniversary and honor guests, the hotel completed a $19 million renovation of guestrooms, meeting spaces, bar, corridors and lobby in time for the anniversary.

“Grand Hyatt San Antonio is thrilled to celebrate 10 years of service to our guests and the City of San Antonio as its premiere meeting and leisure hotel,” said Ed Bucholtz, general manager of Grand Hyatt San Antonio.  “In time for our 10th anniversary, we completed a renovation providing guests with a new luxurious guestroom experience, expansive meeting space with state-of-the-art technology for groups and those hosting elegant affairs, an urbane bar and lounge with contemporary seating serving the latest craft beverages, and a sophisticated lobby to ensure leisure and business travelers are comfortable and feel at home while they are visiting San Antonio.”    

Capturing the essence of the city’s rich culture and its vibrant River Walk, the newly renovated property offers 1,003 modern and luxurious guestrooms including 46 spacious suites with panoramic views of the city.  Guests will experience new Hyatt Grand beds with luxury linens and ultramodern 55-inch flat-screen televisions.  The lavish accommodations are only topped by the plush indigo carpeting, rich ivory wall coverings, and warm-wooden tones of teak and birch to reflect San Antonio’s lush landscape and captivating rivers.  The guestrooms are accented by southwestern-style blues and browns featured in its contemporary furniture.  Designed with the latest technology, wireless high-speed internet is complimentary in all guestrooms and public spaces to keep guests connected without ever needing to leave the hotel.

Complementing the newly designed guestrooms, Grand Hyatt San Antonio’s corridors were also featured in the renovation including new carpet and wall coverings.  The floors and landings were modernized with warm, welcoming colors and similar finished wood tones as displayed in the guestrooms.  

Located next to San Antonio’s Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and connected to the world famous Alamodome via a foot bridge, Grand Hyatt San Antonio has 115,000 square feet of expansive indoor and outdoor space for company meetings and events.  Supporting groups and organizations visiting San Antonio, the recent renovation enhances the experiences of large meetings and events, while enriching the aesthetics of smaller meetings at the property.  The colors of the up-to-date wall coverings complement the meeting rooms’ new lush carpeting with shades of cornflower blue and royal yellow.  The meeting rooms are modernized with advanced lighting; state-of-the-art reader boards; the latest in audio visual technology; and high-tech special effects to help planners bring their meetings to life.         

Grand Hyatt San Antonio’s newly updated and expansive meeting space provides planners with 13 flexible indoor and outdoor venues from hosting sophisticated weddings and elegant social events in the Lone Star Ballroom to holding large corporate gatherings accommodating thousands of executives in the Texas Ballroom to having more intimate occasions in the hotel’s 29 smaller boardrooms and breakout rooms.  Taking advantage of San Antonio’s perfect weather conditions, the hotel has 5,200 square feet of exceptional balcony space overlooking the bustling city, its inspirational rolling hills, and famous river.

Completing the hotel’s renovation, Grand Hyatt San Antonio has increased the amount of seating in its popular Bar Rojo adding new modernized furniture that incorporates imbedded electrical outlets and wireless technology into the marble table tops and comfortable leather chairs.  The bar is outfitted with a new cherry red colored carpet highlighted by a honey-yellow spherical design.  Contemporary elegant gold lighting fixtures extend from the ceiling accentuating the ultra-modern wine, scarlet and amber colored chandelier inviting patrons to experience the ambiance of the bar while enjoying a handcrafted cocktail or artisan beer.

As guests enter the newly renovated Grand Hyatt San Antonio, they are greeted by exquisite wall coverings decorating the hotel’s main entrance.  Walking through the Italian tile and marble lobby, stylish furniture with easily accessible electrical outlets are positioned throughout the grand entrance to encourage networking and conversations among guests.  The new lobby is furnished with modern fixtures and embellished by contemporary chandeliers that extend from the ceiling and offer an aura of sophistication to the guests’ arrival.

The newly renovated hotel also includes a heated roof-top pool with morning yoga classes; state-of-the-art fitness center with cardio machines, free weights and stability balls; and three restaurants including Ruth’s Chris Steak House.  It is minutes away from San Antonio’s top attractions including the River Walk, The Alamo, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, Tower of The Americas, Alamodome, and the San Antonio Zoo.  

About Grand Hyatt San Antonio

Grand Hyatt San Antonio is located on San Antonio’s magical River Walk and is conveniently situated adjacent to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.  One-thousand-and-three luxurious guest rooms capture the essence of the vibrant city with modern comforts and pampering amenities.  One-hundred-and-fifteen thousand square feet of expansive indoor and outdoor meeting space combine state-of-the-art technology with high-tech special effects to accommodate all types of company meetings and events.  The hotel features a heated rooftop pool and daily YogaAway™ classes; a fully equipped 24-hour StayFit@Hyatt gym with the latest cardio machines and free weights in the fitness center; Bar Rojo, a casual-yet-upscale lounge experience offering handcrafted cocktails, premium libations, and craft beer; Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse; as well as Perks Coffee shop, open 24 hours.  Connected by a foot bridge to the Alamodome and just steps away from the Tower of The Americas, the Alamo, iconic riverside restaurants, and historic downtown shops and attractions, Grand Hyatt San Antonio guests and groups will indulge themselves with the latest amenities and services to make their stay unforgettable in the Alamo City.  For more information on Grand Hyatt San Antonio or Bar Rojo, please call (210) 224-1234 or visit sanantonio.grand.hyatt.com, follow @GrandHyattSanAntonio on Facebook, @grandhyattsa on Instagram and Twitter, and tag photos on #LivingGrand.

About Grand Hyatt

Around the world, Grand Hyatt hotels unlock the extraordinary in every moment by creating experiences beyond expectation. Located at the crossroads of local culture and global business within major gateway cities and resort destinations, each Grand Hyatt hotel is uniquely designed to reflect its own distinct environment and provides a hub for travelers and locals alike. Grand Hyatt hotels exemplify the pursuit of life lived grandly offering guests superior service, first-class accommodations and an abundance of options within a multicultural backdrop of dramatic architecture and innovative design. Grand Hyatt properties boast inventive restaurants, luxury spas, fitness centers, and business and meeting facilities. Grand Hyatt hotels stand to make every moment memorable through their commitment to living grand every day. For additional information or to make a reservation, please visit grandhyatt.com. Follow @GrandHyatt on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #GoGrand.

SAN ANTONIO (January 17, 2018) – Travelers to San Antonio now have access to a brand-new, state of the art $178M Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC) at the San Antonio International Airport. The facility makes it convenient for travelers to access rental cars in one centralized, on-site location. The short-term garage is on the first two levels of the facility and the next five levels are designated rental car areas. Access to the rental car area is through the sky bridge, taking passengers directly from the mezzanine level of the terminal to the rental car counters.

The 1.8 million square feet CONRAC facility houses 14 rental car companies, a quick turnaround (QTA) area for fueling, vacuuming, washing and light maintenance, and approximately 2,600 ready/return parking spaces. The CONRAC, just a few steps away from the terminals, eliminates the need for shuttles to take passengers to their rental car locations, enabling the airport to initiate significant improvements to traffic flow in the arrivals area. 

“The airport continues to enjoy great success in several areas as we continue to set record passenger numbers, add additional air service and achieve national recognition for our fantastic customer service.  With the opening of the CONRAC, we now enjoy a state-of-the-art structure that provides customers with the convenience of an on-site, consolidated rental car facility, truly offering a first-class experience to those visiting San Antonio and the region,” said Russ Handy, Aviation Director for the City of San Antonio. 

In addition to the CONRAC, the city invested substantial resources in airport aesthetics, including detailed lighting and public art installations created by local artists Suzy Gonzales and Michael Menchaca. The artwork celebrates 300 years of San Antonio history, focusing on the airport’s culture, architecture and role in aviation history.

###

San Antonio: America’s 21st Century City

San Antonio is a global city with a dynamic economy and workforce, a deep cultural heritage and diverse communities that are resilient and welcoming. It is one of the strongest fiscally managed cities in the country with a vibrant business climate and a ‘AAA’ general obligation bond rating from all three major rating agencies. San Antonio is a city that nurtures entrepreneurship, encourages investment and funds infrastructure. America’s seventh-largest city offers growth opportunities in bioscience, financial services, aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, transportation, manufacturing and healthcare. In 2015, UNESCO designated San Antonio’s 18th century Spanish colonial missions as a World Heritage Site – the first in Texas. Proudly called Military City, USA®, San Antonio is home to one of the largest populations of active duty military, veterans and crucial military commands. In 2018, the city celebrates its 300th anniversary, honoring its rich past and a bright future focused on innovation and livability. For more information, visit www.sanantonio.gov.

SAN ANTONIO (January 3, 2018) – San Antonio has been named the “Best City for Meetings” by Smart Asset, an online financial technology company that uses data-driven tools to help individuals make important financial decisions. This is the third consecutive year that San Antonio has topped the annual list.

To create its list, Smart Asset analyzed 102 of the largest U.S. cities using a variety of factors including the number and size of the hotels in the city, the average room rate, the average cost of a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, the distance between downtown and the airport, the number of violent crimes per 100,000 people and the number of restaurants and other entertainment venues as a percentage of all businesses.

“San Antonio is a modern meeting destination amid a city of history and culture,” said Visit San Antonio President & CEO Casandra Matej. “Meeting planners and attendees are drawn here because of the city’s central location, year-round favorable weather, accessibility, walkability, affordability and variety of options. We’re thrilled that Smart Asset’s data shows what we already know and love about our city, and it’s an honor to receive this recognition.”

To see Smart Asset’s study analysis, visit smartasset.com/mortgage/the-best-cities-for-conferences-2017-edition.

###

About Visit San Antonio

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 20.9 million overnight visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.6 billion into the local economy and employing more than 130,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com.

SAN ANTONIO (Nov. 28, 2017) — San Antonio has been named to National Geographic Traveler magazine’s annual lineup of the 21 must-see destinations to visit in the year ahead. The 2018 Best of the World list, comprised of Traveler editors’ top picks, is available today in the December/January 2018 issue of the publication, on newsstands and online at NatGeoTravel.com/BestTrips2018.

“Our mission is to inspire curiosity and encourage our readers to explore the world with passion and purpose,” said George Stone, editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler. “The 21 places that we profile make for a year of exhilarating discoveries and a dream itinerary for intrepid travelers.”

San Antonio, which draws more than 34 million visitors a year, was one of three U.S. destinations listed. Also honored were Cleveland, Ohio, and Oahu, Hawaii.

San Antonio will be celebrating its 300th birthday throughout 2018, including a kickoff celebration on New Year’s Eve. It has recently enjoyed a string of notable accolades, including recognition from Conde Nast Traveler, Fodor’s and Frommer’s, all naming the city as a must-visit destination. In October, Travel + Leisure named San Antonio one of the friendliest communities in the country.

Already home to the only World Heritage Site in Texas, San Antonio also was honored earlier this month when UNESCO named it a Creative City of Gastronomy for its mix of culinary cultures. San Antonio is only the second U.S. city to receive this recognition.

“As San Antonio prepares to celebrate its Tricentennial in 2018, this incredible honor arrives at a special place in our timeline as one of the most authentic, culturally celebrated destinations in the world,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit San Antonio. “This National Geographic designation puts the international spotlight on a World Heritage community that contains a rich diversity of attractions, from arts to history to culinary to family fun, all complemented by the warmth and hospitality of its residents.”

Added Stone, “Our list is guided by National Geographic values of cultural engagement, heritage preservation and ecological conservation and sustainability. Our list is fun, vivid, surprising and rewarding.”

In alphabetical order, the 2018 Best of the World destinations are:

• Albania
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Dublin, Ireland
• Friesland, Netherlands
• Harar, Ethiopia
• Jordan Trail, Jordan
• Jujuy Province, Argentina
• Labrador, Canada
• Madagascar
• Malmo, Sweden
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Oaxaca, Mexico
• Phnom Penh, Cambodia
• Ruaha NP, Tanzania
• San Antonio
• Santiago, Chile
• Seoraksan National Park, South Korea
• Sydney, Australia
• Tbilisi, Georgia
• Tetouan, Morocco
• Vienna, Austria

National Geographic Traveler has the largest audience of any travel magazine, with more than 9.6 million readers. Its readers have the highest passport ownership, most international and domestic trips and most outdoor recreation spending of any other travel title.

###

Media Contact:   

Richard Oliver     
Director of Partner & Community Relations
richardoliver@visitsanantonio.com
(210) 207-6708

David Gonzalez
Director of Communications
davidgonzalez@visitsanantonio.com
(210) 207-6758

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 20.9 million overnight visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.6 billion into the local economy and employing more than 130,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com. 

SAN ANTONIO (October 6, 2017) – Casandra Matej, president & CEO of Visit San Antonio, has been named one of the Top 25 Women in the Meetings Industry for 2017 by Meetings & Conventions Magazine. The third annual ranking includes a select list of high achievers in the meetings industry who have demonstrated extraordinary talent, leadership, creativity and advocacy in the field.

“The meetings world is dominated by extraordinary women, and Meetings & Conventions chooses the crème de la crème each year for its list of the Top 25 Women in the Meetings Industry,” said Loren Edelstein, editor in chief of Meetings & Conventions. “Casandra has proved herself a champion for travelers locally, statewide, and in the greater world of convention and visitor bureaus.”

Matej was recognized for her ongoing vision and leadership at Visit San Antonio. Her more than two decades of tourism experience have helped guide the organization in achieving record highs in convention sales, media coverage and traffic to visitsanantonio.com. In her role, Matej is also a key advocate for legislative issues that may impact the meetings industry on a local, state and national level. In 2017, Matej was instrumental in leading a successful effort by San Antonio and major cities across the state in opposing the Texas Legislature’s controversial Bathroom Bill.

“I am honored to be named among this group of powerhouse women and have a tremendous amount of respect and admiration for my fellow honorees,” said Matej. “It is my privilege to know and work alongside these women who are the epitome of professional excellence.”

Matej is a leading figure in San Antonio’s $13.6 billion hospitality industry. A year ago, Casandra spearheaded the transition of the bureau from a department of the City of San Antonio to a 501(c)6, a public-private partnership. Matej is active in a number of industry organizations and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the U.S. Travel Association and is the incoming chairman of the Texas Travel Industry Association.

###

About Visit San Antonio

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 20.9 million overnight visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.6 billion into the local economy and employing more than 130,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com. 

SAN ANTONIO (September 26, 2017) – Visit San Antonio President & CEO Casandra Matej has been awarded the 2017 Distinguished Affiliate Award by the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE). The prestigious honor recognizes outstanding professionalism and exemplary service to the association community. Significant contributions to the employing organization and to professional organizations further characterize the Affiliate Award recipient.

TSAE offers association professionals a community for collaboration and learning and honors outstanding professionals from within the industry annually at its TSAE New Ideas Conference. This year’s conference was held Sept. 17 – 19 in Houston. Additional 2017 honorees included Distinguished Executive award-winner David A. DuBois, CAE, CMP, CTA, FASAE, Professional Excellence award-winner Julie Courtney, CAE, CMP and Young Professional Leadership award-winner Taylor Jackson, CAE, MPA.

“TSAE is excited that our membership named Casandra Matej as the 2017 Distinguished Affiliate. Although Casandra is involved with a number of different industry groups, she always makes you feel like you are the most important one, and you forget she is running a destination marketing organization for the seventh largest city in the county. She has been a dedicated member of this community for a number of years, and we are grateful for her recent leadership in spearheading TSAE’s brand refresh last year, giving us a chance to showcase who we truly are as an organization,” said TSAE Executive Director Steven J. Stout, CAE.

“I am truly humbled to receive this recognition from my peers at TSAE, but it is the support and dedication of the entire Visit San Antonio team that makes it possible” said Matej. “The community of association professionals is dedicated to collaboration, learning and leadership, and it has been an honor to work with them to help move the association industry forward.”

Matej is a leading figure in San Antonio’s $13.6 billion hospitality industry, and her more than two decades of tourism experience have helped guide Visit San Antonio in achieving record highs in convention sales, media coverage and traffic to visitsanantonio.com. A year ago, Casandra spearheaded the transition of the bureau from a department of the City of San Antonio to a 501(c)6, a public-private partnership. Matej is active in a number of industry organizations and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the U.S. Travel Association and is the incoming chairman of the Texas Travel Industry Association.

###

About Visit San Antonio

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 20.9 million overnight visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.6 billion into the local economy and employing more than 130,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com. 

Photo Caption: Visit San Antonio staff on hand to accept the 2017 TSAE Distinguished Affiliate Award.
From Left to Right: Azari Jones, Casandra Matej, Alysia Roden and Tyler Orwig
Photo Credit: Photo Courtsey of Kayla Prasek Photography

Following an extensive nationwide search, Visit San Antonio has selected an industry expert with deep knowledge of the San Antonio market to join its executive team. Mario Bass will join Visit San Antonio on October 11 as the new Vice President of Sales and Services.

“One of the foundations of San Antonio’s strong tourism industry is its convention business so it was imperative that the Vice President role have an exceptional leader and proven expert in the field. In Mario Bass we found the motivational and energetic leadership style along with tried and true experience that are ideal fits for our core values and goals,” said Casandra Matej, President and CEO, Visit San Antonio. “With the recent debut of the renovated and expanded Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the forward momentum across the entire destination, we look forward to having Mario lead our continued sales growth for years to come.”

Mr. Bass currently serves as Director of Sales and Marketing for JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. He brings more than 20 years of experience in the hotel industry including the flagship Marriott Marquis in New York and the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine as well as nearly 10 years in San Antonio hotels and resorts with strong convention bases.
“The award winning team at Visit San Antonio is renowned in the industry and I’m thrilled to be joining the group of hospitality professionals,” said Mario Bass. “I am looking forward to joining the Sales and Services team in their efforts in keeping San Antonio the preeminent meetings and leisure destination in Texas!”

In his new role, Mr. Bass will provide strategic leadership to the Sales and Destination Services departments of Visit San Antonio. The Sales division is a key player in securing group meetings and industry trade shows which contribute significantly to the San Antonio economy. Additionally, the Sales team is responsible for helping San Antonio maintain a high level of visibility within the meetings industry and maintaining an ongoing communications strategy with key customers. The Destination Services division streamlines the planning process for meeting professionals to create unforgettable meetings and events in San Antonio. Visit San Antonio’s Destination Services team connects planners with local resources, unique venues, dining and entertainment opportunities, and can be an advocate as needs arise.

The position became available following the recent announcement by Steve Clanton, current Vice President of Sales and Services, to retire as of October 20 following a distinguished career of more than 40 years in hospitality and tourism including 12 years with Visit San Antonio (previously the San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau) and 25 years with Marriott International.

About Visit San Antonio
Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 20.9 million overnight visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.6 billion into the local economy and employing more than 130,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com.

San Antonio is building on its pioneer past with advances in the new digital frontier, moving the needle on technology, medicine, energy and other advanced industries, which conference planners can leverage to drive innovation in their organizations.

Read more

San Antonio is celebrating its spot as a 21st-century, highly connected cosmopolitan meetings destination, championing global innovation and local urban dynamism without losing sight of the city’s pioneering spirit.

Read more

SAN ANTONIO — The San Antonio City Council on Thursday approved a new management agreement that essentially transitions the San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau to a new public-private nonprofit called Visit San Antonio.

The management agreement for the 501(c)(6) nonprofit takes effect Oct. 1, with the organization’s staff and structure moving under the Visit San Antonio model on Jan. 1, 2017.

Casandra Matej, executive director of the current SACVB, described the vote as “historic,” adding that the new organization will now be able to pursue other revenue opportunities to market the city’s $13.4 billion tourism industry.

“By approving this management agreement, you will give this new entity more autonomy,” Frank Miceli, who has been appointed chairman of the Visit San Antonio board of directors, told the Council on Thursday.

Miceli, Senior Vice-President of Sales and Franchise Operations for Spurs Sports & Entertainment, added that the new organization “will be better positioned to keep San Antonio squarely in the spotlight as a remarkable destination for visitors.”

Matej stressed that the move to a nonprofit model came after months of collaborative work between the City Council, SACVB, industry leaders and other community stakeholders.

San Antonio’s CVB was formed in 1968 following the city’s role as host of the international HemisFair. The city, which attracts more than 32 million visitors annually, has been a perennial leader in the travel and meetings market in Texas, but has seen that dominance tested in recent years as other destinations have grown their budgets.

With a more nimble speed-to-market capability under the new Visit San Antonio structure, Matej and other leaders hope to see the organization’s marketing budget and operations grow to keep pace with the rising competition.

“Today, the City Council took a huge step,” said Matej, who has headed San Antonio’s destination management organization since 2011. “This allows us to be more agile, able to react quickly to changing market conditions.

“It’s a transformative time in San Antonio,” added Matej, who will head the new Visit San Antonio, “and this is a transformative moment.”

Councilwoman Rebecca Viagran, a current member of the Convention & Visitors Commission who also is a charter member of the Visit San Antonio board, noted that the historic transition to a more powerful public-private nonprofit is timely. San Antonio will be celebrating its Tricentennial in 2018.

Recently, San Antonio’s five Spanish colonial missions, including the Alamo, were named a World Heritage Site, the only such designation in the State of Texas.

Viagran said San Antonio is in “a new era of tourism.” She added, “We are all working together to make it the best.”

For more information, visit SATravelsForward.com.

###

The San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau is a department of the City of San Antonio, and is the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 32.5 million visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $13.4 billion into the local economy annually and employing 122,500. For more information, visit www.visitsanantonio.com.