Introduction
The Paseo del Rio Association is a non-profit organization founded in 1968. To promote, protect, and preserve the San Antonio River Walk, the number one tourist attraction in Texas. The Association achieves this through year-round events on the River Walk and Rio Magazine, a monthly visitor publication. The Association acts as a liaison between business, civic, and governmental communities regarding the River Walk.
History
In September 1921, a devastating flood claimed fifty lives along the San Antonio River, prompting flood control plans. Among these plans was the construction of the Olmos Dam and bypass channel, initiated in 1926. Objections from the San Antonio Conservation Society paused major developments until 1929. Architect Robert Hugman presented his visionary plans for the iconic San Antonio River Walk. Former mayor Jack White spearheaded a bond issue in 1938. Kickstarting the “San Antonio River Beautification Project” and marking the River Walk’s transformation into its present 2.5-mile-long stretch.
Hugman’s innovative proposal included a floodgate at the northern end of the bend, a small dam at the southern end, and a tainter gate for flow regulation, creating a picturesque commercial area he named “The Shops of Aragon and Romula.” Hugman even situated his own architect’s office along the bend, emphasizing his commitment to the project’s success.
In 1981, the Hyatt Regency San Antonio River opened, featuring a pedestrian connector known as the Paseo del Alamo. This addition linked Alamo Plaza to the River Walk, improving accessibility between major tourist attractions. Many downtown buildings, like the Casino Club Building, boast street and river entrances on separate levels, facilitating traffic flow and contributing to the area’s unique charm.
Moreover, the San Antonio River Spurs celebrated their four NBA Championship victories with parades and cruises along the river, further embedding the River Walk into the city’s cultural fabric.
Growth forces expansion
Expansion plans are progressing for areas of the river north and south of downtown. With chain restaurants and establishments now occupying about a third of commercial space, discussions have arisen at City Hall regarding limiting their presence on the River Walk to maintain a distinctively local character. On May 30, 2009, the city unveiled the $72 million Museum Reach. Two years later, in May 2011, the River Walk was extended several miles from Downtown to Mission Espada on the south side of the River, known as the “Mission Reach.” This expansion emphasizes ecological controls, trail enhancements for hiking and biking, and efforts to improve water quality, despite challenges posed by the muddy bottom and silt deposits. Nonetheless, the muddy bottom undergoes an annual cleaning during the Mud Festival.