Potranco Road: San Antonio’s Far Westside Growth Corridor Faces Traffic Challenges and Future Solutions

Potranco Road has emerged as one of San Antonio’s most critical—and congested—transportation corridors, serving as the primary artery for the rapidly expanding Far Westside. With over 40,000 vehicles traveling this route daily and the road ranking among the 100 most congested in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), residents and commuters face mounting challenges as residential and commercial development continues at a breakneck pace.

The congestion on Potranco Road isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a quality-of-life issue affecting thousands of families in growing communities like Alamo Ranch, Ladera, and Potranco Ranch. Drivers report losing more than 182,000 miles collectively each year to slowdowns between Talley Road and Highway 151 alone, with commute times that can stretch 30 minutes or more just to reach Loop 1604 during peak hours.

TxDOT has recognized the urgent need for improvements and is currently studying plans to widen Potranco Road from Highway 211 to Culebra Road to at least six lanes. While the project remains in the planning phase with no construction funding identified as of late 2025, the proposed improvements signal recognition of the infrastructure investment needed to support the Far Westside’s explosive growth.

Why This Matters for San Antonio 

Transportation infrastructure directly impacts property values, quality of life, and community sustainability. For the Far Westside—one of San Antonio’s fastest-growing areas—addressing Potranco Road’s congestion is essential to maintaining the region’s appeal to homebuyers and supporting continued economic development.

The Economic Reality of Traffic Congestion

When residents spend hours each week sitting in traffic, it affects everything from family time to local business vitality. Areas of San Antonio known for convenient commutes command premium home prices, while neighborhoods plagued by traffic challenges can see slower appreciation despite other attractive features.

The Far Westside’s growth has been remarkable. Neighborhoods like Alamo Ranch have seen median home prices climb to approximately $397,000 as of mid-2025, according to Redfin, reflecting strong demand for the area’s master-planned communities, newer construction, and family-friendly amenities. However, sustained growth requires infrastructure that can accommodate increasing traffic demands.

Beyond Just Roads

Transportation improvements like those proposed for Potranco Road contribute to neighborhood appeal in multiple ways. Wider roads with improved drainage reduce flooding risks during San Antonio’s intense rain events. Enhanced sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure improve walkability and safety. Intersection upgrades reduce accident rates and emergency response times.

For homebuyers evaluating Far Westside properties, understanding both current traffic challenges and planned infrastructure improvements provides important context for long-

Community Overview: Far Westside Transportation and Housing (2025) 

Ongoing residential developments along Potranco Road contribute to growing demand for improved transportation infrastructure. The widening project includes new lanes, sidewalks, drainage enhancements, and intersection upgrades to better serve these communities. 

The Geography of Growth

Potranco Road (FM 1957) begins as a two-lane country road at FM 471 near Rio Medina and transforms into a city street after Highway 211, eventually ending at Ingram Road—a journey of nearly 16 miles. This evolution from rural road to urban corridor reflects the dramatic transformation the Far Westside has experienced over the past two decades.

The most severe congestion occurs between Potranco and Talley Road extending to Loop 1604. Residents living outside Loop 1604, particularly near developments like Redbird Ranch subdivision at Potranco Road and Highway 211, report needing to leave by 6 a.m. to reach downtown by 8 a.m. Weekend traffic can be equally challenging, with congestion typically starting around 9:30 a.m. for eastbound travelers.

Commercial Development Boom

The Potranco corridor isn’t just residential. The area features two H-E-B locations, multiple shopping centers including Potranco Village Shopping Center at Loop 1604, and new commercial developments like the 211 Crossing office park—a six-building development totaling 35,000 square feet for medical and office space that broke ground in August 2025 near Potranco Road and Lackland Air Force Base.

This commercial growth serves the expanding residential population but also contributes to traffic volumes, creating a cycle where infrastructure improvements become increasingly urgent to support continued development.

Real Estate Impact

Transportation infrastructure and real estate values share an inextricable connection. While current traffic challenges present obstacles for Far Westside residents, the recognition of these issues and movement toward solutions can actually support property values by demonstrating community commitment to long-term livability.

Current Market Dynamics

The Far Westside real estate market remains robust despite traffic concerns. Alamo Ranch, one of the area’s premier master-planned communities, shows median home prices around $397,000 as of June 2025, representing a 1.1% year-over-year increase according to Redfin. This demonstrates that buyers continue to value the area’s newer construction, amenities, and family-oriented community despite known commute challenges.

Price points in the broader Potranco corridor typically range from $250,000 to $500,000 depending on home age, size, and specific neighborhood. New developments targeting the $250,000-$350,000 range are attracting first-time buyers and military families from nearby Lackland Air Force Base, while established neighborhoods with larger homes serve move-up buyers seeking space and community amenities.

Infrastructure’s Long-Term Value Impact

“Transportation infrastructure improvements can significantly impact property values over time,” says Tami Price, REALTOR® with Real Broker, LLC. “When buyers evaluate Far Westside properties, they’re not just looking at today’s commute—they’re considering the area’s growth trajectory and whether infrastructure will keep pace with development.”

Areas that successfully address infrastructure challenges before they become critical typically see stronger property value appreciation than those that lag. The Far Westside’s recognition of Potranco Road congestion and movement toward solutions, even if still in planning phases, demonstrates the kind of proactive community planning that supports long-term real estate stability.

What Buyers Should Consider

For homebuyers evaluating Potranco corridor properties:

Current Realities:

• Plan for extended commute times during rush hours
• Weekend traffic can rival weekday congestion
• Access to Loop 1604 and major highways requires patience during peak hours

Future Outlook:

• TxDOT studying significant widening improvements
• Commercial development adding convenience (shopping, dining, services)
• Master-planned communities offering amenities that reduce need for long-distance travel
• Area’s growth trajectory suggests continued investment in infrastructure

Strategic Considerations:

• Properties near multiple access points to major roads offer more flexibility
• Newer developments often include better internal road networks
• Proximity to Lackland AFB creates stable demand regardless of traffic challenges
• Communities with strong HOAs often maintain better internal infrastructure

Expert Insight from Tami Price, Realtor®

As a USAF Veteran and experienced San Antonio Realtor® specializing in military relocations and Far Westside properties, Tami Price offers unique perspective on navigating the Potranco corridor real estate market.

“The Far Westside represents one of San Antonio’s best opportunities for homebuyers seeking newer construction, master-planned amenities, and strong school districts,” Tami explains. “Yes, traffic on Potranco Road is a challenge—residents are rightfully frustrated. But it’s important to look at the complete picture.”

Tami points out three key factors buyers should weigh:

Growth Equals Opportunity: “Areas experiencing this kind of growth typically see strong long-term property value appreciation. The infrastructure challenges are growing pains, not terminal conditions. TxDOT’s study of widening improvements shows the issue is being addressed at the highest levels.”

Quality of Life Beyond Commutes: “Many Far Westside neighborhoods offer amenities that reduce daily driving needs—parks, pools, walking trails, nearby shopping. Families often find they’re driving less for daily activities than they did in older neighborhoods, even if their work commute is longer.”

Strategic Timing: “Buyers who purchase before major infrastructure improvements are completed often see significant equity gains once projects finish. The key is buying in the right location with the right long-term outlook, not just reacting to current conditions.”

For military families considering Potranco corridor properties, Tami emphasizes the proximity advantage: “Lackland Air Force Base is just minutes away from many Potranco neighborhoods. For military buyers, that short commute to base is incredibly valuable, even if getting to other parts of San Antonio takes longer.”

Three Takeaways for Homebuyers and Residents

1. Traffic Challenges Are Recognized and Being Addressed

TxDOT’s study of widening Potranco Road from Highway 211 to Culebra Road to at least six lanes demonstrates that the congestion issues aren’t being ignored. While the project remains in planning phases with no construction funding identified as of late 2025, public input opportunities are expected, and environmental clearance is anticipated in 2026. This represents progress toward solutions, even if immediate relief isn’t yet scheduled.

2. Far Westside Real Estate Remains Strong Despite Traffic

Median home prices in communities like Alamo Ranch hovering near $400,000 demonstrate that buyers continue to value the area’s newer homes, master-planned amenities, and family-friendly environment. The key for buyers is understanding current traffic realities while recognizing the area’s long-term growth potential and eventual infrastructure improvements.

3. Location Within the Corridor Matters

Not all Potranco corridor properties face equal traffic challenges. Homes near multiple access points, properties in neighborhoods with strong internal road networks, and communities positioned for convenient access once improvements are completed may offer better long-term value than those dependent solely on congested stretches of Potranco Road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What specific improvements are planned for Potranco Road?

A: TxDOT is currently studying plans to widen Potranco Road from Highway 211 to Culebra Road to at least six lanes. The project is broken into sections, with the first segment (Highway 211 to County Road 381) having a placeholder start date of 2031, though this could change. As of late 2025, construction funding has not been identified, so there’s no confirmed timeline for when expansion will move forward. Public meetings are anticipated to gather community input once the study phase advances.

Q: When will construction begin on Potranco Road widening?

A: As of November 2025, no construction start date has been set because funding has not been identified. The project remains in the environmental study phase, with clearance anticipated in 2026. Until funding is secured and environmental reviews are completed, construction cannot begin. Residents should expect this to be a multi-year process before seeing actual roadwork.

Q: How bad is traffic on Potranco Road currently?

A: Traffic congestion is significant, particularly during weekday rush hours and weekend midday periods. Drivers report 30+ minute delays just reaching Loop 1604 from areas outside the loop during peak times. TxDOT data shows drivers collectively lose more than 182,000 miles per year to slowdowns between Talley Road and Highway 151 alone. Residents near Highway 211 often need to leave by 6 a.m. to reach downtown San Antonio by 8 a.m.

Q: Will traffic issues hurt Far Westside property values?

A: While severe, prolonged traffic congestion can impact property values, the Far Westside continues showing strong real estate performance. Alamo Ranch median home prices around $397,000 and steady demand suggest buyers value the area’s amenities despite traffic challenges. Long-term, successful infrastructure improvements typically lead to property value appreciation. The key is whether improvements keep pace with growth—an issue TxDOT is actively studying.

Q: What neighborhoods are most affected by Potranco Road traffic?

A: Communities along the Potranco corridor including Alamo Ranch, Ladera, Potranco Ranch, and developments near Highway 211 are most directly affected. However, impact varies based on specific location, access to alternative routes, and daily commute patterns. Working with a Realtor® familiar with the area helps identify properties that balance corridor convenience with traffic management.

Q: Are there alternative routes to avoid Potranco Road congestion?

A: Alternative routes depend on your destination, but options are limited in the Far Westside due to the area’s geography. Some residents use Highway 211 to access Highway 90, or navigate through neighborhood roads to reach Loop 1604 at different points. However, as the area grows, alternative routes also experience increased traffic. This is why the proposed Potranco widening is so critical—alternatives can’t fully absorb the traffic demand.

The Bottom Line

Potranco Road stands at a crossroads—serving as both the backbone of the Far Westside’s impressive growth and the symbol of infrastructure challenges that accompany rapid development. With over 40,000 vehicles daily navigating a road originally designed for far lighter traffic, current conditions test the patience of residents and commuters alike.

However, the story of Potranco Road is ultimately one of growth, opportunity, and eventual adaptation. TxDOT’s study of significant widening improvements, while still in planning phases, represents recognition that infrastructure investment must match the area’s expansion. The Far Westside’s continued real estate strength—with median home prices in premier communities approaching $400,000—demonstrates that buyers see value in the area’s master-planned amenities, newer construction, and community character despite current traffic challenges.

For homebuyers evaluating Far Westside properties, success lies in balancing current realities with long-term outlook. Understanding today’s commute challenges while recognizing the area’s growth trajectory and eventual infrastructure improvements provides the complete picture needed for confident decision-making.

Ready to Navigate Far Westside Real Estate?

Tami Price, Realtor® with Real Broker, LLC, specializes in helping buyers and sellers understand how infrastructure, growth patterns, and community dynamics impact property values. As a USAF Veteran with deep San Antonio market knowledge, Tami provides honest guidance about traffic challenges, neighborhood selection, and long-term value considerations for Potranco corridor properties.

Whether you’re a military family seeking proximity to Lackland AFB, a first-time buyer attracted to newer construction, or a seller wondering how infrastructure factors affect your home’s value, Tami’s expertise ensures you make informed decisions aligned with your goals.

Contact Tami Price, Realtor® today:

📲 Call or Text: 210-620-6681

🌐 Visit: www.tamiprice.com

✉️ Email: tami@tamiprice.com

Serving San Antonio, Alamo Ranch, Far Westside, and surrounding communities with personalized service that honors your needs and goals.

This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or investment advice. Home buyers should conduct their own due diligence and consult with qualified professionals before making real estate decisions. Infrastructure project timelines and details are subject to change based on funding availability and government planning processes.