The San Antonio City Council has taken a major step toward expanding outdoor connectivity on the city’s Southwest Side by approving the submission of a grant application totaling up to $8.6 million in state funding. The request, if awarded, would support critical infrastructure improvements as part of the southern Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion. This project known as the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will provide new recreational opportunities for the surrounding communities. The broad benefits of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion are expected to reach many residents. The importance of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion is reflected in the city’s commitment to improving public spaces and accessibility. Additionally, continued efforts toward the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will shape the city’s future connectivity. Notably, the commitment to the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion demonstrates the city’s focus on sustainable development. Furthermore, the regional impact of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will extend well beyond recreational access. As the city looks forward, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion embodies a vision for enhanced community spaces and outdoor resources.
The grant application will be submitted to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) through the Off-System Grade Separation State Fund Program. Acceptance of the funds would require a local cash match of up to 10% of total project costs. This financial step is crucial for the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion moving forward.
Grant Targets Key Rail Crossing at Leon Creek
One of the primary projects included in the application is the construction of a Union Pacific Railroad crossing at Leon Creek near Quintana Road, located in District 4. The project is estimated at $677,940 and supports the voter-approved 2015 Sales Tax Venue Project, which focuses on extending the Leon Creek Greenway from Quintana Road to I-35. Notably, this is a key part of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion in southwest San Antonio. It is expected that the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will have a significant impact on trail connectivity in the region.
If funded, the rail crossing would complement ongoing trail improvements connecting the southern end of Pearsall Park to Spicewood Park, a project currently funded by Bexar County. The Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion is expected to increase the popularity of these parks once completed.
“After 25 years since the Greenway trail system began, gaps remain in the southwestern sector of San Antonio,” said the District 4 Councilmember. “Seeking funding for this railroad crossing at Leon Creek is a critical step forward in connecting our trails in the Southside. As the city continues to grow south, we must ensure residents across the city have access to green spaces and that we protect our natural areas.” In short, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will play a vital role in this ongoing effort.
About the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail System
The Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail System is a growing network of paved, multi-use creekway trails that connect neighborhoods to parks, schools, and natural spaces across San Antonio. Currently, the system includes more than 103 miles of trails and over 1,700 acres of preserved green space. The Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion is designed to further increase this reach. The continued growth of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion aligns with the city’s vision for connectivity.
Major corridors within the system include Leon Creek, Salado Creek, Westside Creeks, the Medina River, and several tributary creeks that together form one of the most extensive urban trail systems in Texas. The Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will further strengthen these connections. As a result, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion continues to be instrumental in enhancing trail access citywide.
Photo Courtesy of the City of San Antonio
Recent Progress in District 4
Trail development continues in District 4. In 2023, the City installed the Camargo Park Trailhead, a 1.9-mile segment of the Leon Creek South Greenway that connects Levi Strauss Park and Rodriguez County Park. Looking ahead, further progress is anticipated with the next phase of the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion.
Additional trailheads serving District 4 residents include:
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New Life Trailhead
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Pearsall Park
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Lackland Corridor Gateway
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Medina River Natural Area
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Applewhite Trailhead
Looking Ahead
Approval of the grant submission represents a pivotal step toward closing long-standing gaps in the Southwest Side greenway network. If awarded, the funding would enhance safety, improve connectivity, and expand access to outdoor recreation for South and Southwest San Antonio residents—reinforcing the city’s commitment to equitable infrastructure and environmental stewardship. In summary, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will help transform how communities interact with nature in this area. Continued focus on the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion will be key to connecting more neighborhoods in the coming years. Ultimately, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion is a catalyst for comprehensive growth. Therefore, the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion remains a top priority for city leaders.
As San Antonio continues to grow, investments like this help ensure that green spaces and trail access remain a shared community asset for generations to come. Importantly, progress on the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail expansion represents the city’s ongoing dedication to connectivity and green space.
