SAWS’ $200M Upgrade Paves the Way for Project Marvel Downtown

San Antonio’s skyline is getting ready for its next transformation — but this time, the change starts below the surface. The San Antonio Water System (SAWS) has announced that replacing and relocating its downtown district cooling plant could exceed $200 million, a key step toward realizing Project Marvel, the city’s massive mixed-use redevelopment plan. 

This isn’t just another construction project. It’s a move that will power the next wave of growth downtown, literally cooling future towers, apartments, restaurants, and entertainment spaces that will shape how San Antonians live and work in the coming decades. 

Why This Matters for San Antonio 

Project Marvel represents a major shift in how downtown San Antonio is evolving — transforming underutilized areas into vibrant, high-density, mixed-use spaces. But before new buildings can rise, the city has to modernize the utilities that make them possible. 

The current cooling plant supports major commercial buildings by circulating chilled water underground. Relocating and upgrading it opens up prime real estate for future high-rise development near the River Walk and Hemisfair area. It’s one of the largest underground infrastructure investments downtown has seen in years. 

Real Estate Impact 

For homeowners, buyers, and investors, Project Marvel’s groundwork signals long-term opportunity. As downtown becomes more desirable and accessible, property values in nearby neighborhoods like Dignowity Hill, Denver Heights, and Government Hill could see renewed momentum. 

This kind of infrastructure spending also tends to attract more business relocation and hospitality investment — creating ripple effects across the greater San Antonio market. As amenities, walkability, and downtown jobs expand, residential demand follows closely behind. 

Expert Insight from Tami Price 

“Most people don’t realize how much these behind-the-scenes projects drive future property values,” says Tami Price, Realtor® | Broker Associate with Real Broker, LLC. “When you see major infrastructure upgrades like this, it’s a sign that San Antonio is planning for serious growth. It’s not just about water or cooling — it’s about setting the foundation for a stronger, more connected downtown.” 

Three Key Takeaways 

1. $200M infrastructure overhaul: SAWS’ investment lays the groundwork for Project Marvel and downtown redevelopment. 

2. Prime land unlocked: Relocating the cooling plant frees up valuable sites for new residential and commercial towers. 

3. Downtown growth ripple effect: Expect nearby real estate to gain attention as urban density and amenities increase. 

The Bottom Line 

San Antonio’s Project Marvel is more than a vision — it’s becoming a blueprint for sustainable urban growth. As SAWS takes on one of its largest upgrades in decades, the groundwork is being laid for a downtown renaissance that blends infrastructure innovation with lifestyle evolution. 

FAQs 

Q1: What is Project Marvel? 
A: It’s a large-scale redevelopment in downtown San Antonio, designed to bring mixed-use spaces, housing, retail, and office space to the city core. 

Q2: How will SAWS’ $200M investment impact residents? 
A: It ensures downtown can handle increased energy demand from new buildings while improving system efficiency. 

Q3: Where will the relocated cooling plant be built? 
A: The final location hasn’t been disclosed, but it’s expected to remain within the downtown district. 

Q4: When will Project Marvel construction begin? 
A: Early infrastructure work is underway, with full vertical construction anticipated once utilities are repositioned. 

Q5: How does this affect nearby real estate values? 
A: Infrastructure and amenity improvements typically boost demand in surrounding neighborhoods. 

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding how local growth affects home values is essential. Contact Tami Price, Realtor®, at 210-620-6681.