A Major Step Forward for Hemisfair’s Mixed-Use Vision
The City of San Antonio Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC) has officially approved the design for 550 Market Street, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing transformation of the Hemisfair District. The 550 Market Street Hemisfair project represents a major step in revitalizing the area. In fact, the 550 Market Street Hemisfair project sets a new standard for urban mixed-use development in San Antonio.
Located just north of Civic Park, this project is the first phase of mixed-use development on the Market Street parcel and will introduce new retail, food, and beverage spaces, as well as additional parking, enhancing both the local experience and downtown connectivity.
Public-Private Partnership Driving Downtown Growth
Delivered through a public-private partnership between Graystreet Partners and the Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation (HPARC), 550 Market Street aligns with the Hemisfair Master Plan’s long-term vision of a vibrant, walkable urban district. Notably, the 550 Market Street Hemisfair project is integral to this partnership.
Graystreet Partners is the owner and developer, with Reverie Concepts providing development and project management. Architectural design is led by Gómez Vázquez International, bringing a modern interpretation rooted in San Antonio’s architectural history.
Design Rooted in History, Built for Pedestrians
The street-level design prioritizes uninterrupted pedestrian flow along Market Street, maintaining seamless movement through one of downtown’s most important corridors. Architectural inspiration draws on iconic structures built for HemisFair ’68, including the original portion of the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, the Lila Cockrell Theatre, and the nearby Hipolito Garcia Federal Building. Therefore, the 550 Market Street Hemisfair project draws from tradition while embracing modernity.
Key elements such as masonry columnades, patterned brick cladding, and metal crowning features reinterpret these historic references into a contemporary design that complements surrounding streets and public spaces.
Retail, Dining, and Strong Connections to Civic Park
The development will include two levels of food, beverage, and retail space with direct access to Market Street and Civic Park. Designed to complement the nearby Monarch Hotel and Civic Park’s year-round programming, 550 Market Street strengthens the relationship between indoor spaces and public areas through transparency, accessibility, and street-level activation.
“550 Market Street moves the Hemisfair District forward by providing key connections between Market Street, Civic Park, and the River Walk,” said Melissa Robinson, Interim CEO of HPARC. “The design prioritizes pedestrians, introduces new dining and retail options, and adds parking in a way that supports continued growth.” In summary, the 550 Market Street Hemisfair project is a cornerstone of downtown revitalization.
River Walk Access and Downtown Parking Solutions
At the river level, public access will be maintained near the HemisFair ’68 expansion of the San Antonio River Walk, preserving both historical context and a critical pedestrian route. Outdoor terraces above the ground floor will offer additional gathering spaces overlooking surrounding public areas.
The project will also deliver approximately 300 below-grade parking spaces, adding much-needed capacity in the downtown core while preserving an active, walkable streetscape along Market Street.
Setting the Stage for Future Development
With HDRC approval secured, 550 Market Street officially moves forward as the first phase of development on the Market Street parcel. The project reinforces Market Street’s historic role as a connector, linking downtown, Civic Park, and the Hemisfair District, while establishing a strong framework for future growth and investment.
