The Vernacular Convention
How might an urban vision connect convention groups with locals?
The 7th largest metropolitan region in America, San Antonio is investing heavily in its urban core and its most intriguing neighborhoods to provide more opportunities for residents and convention attendees to explore the area and engage with each other. Few people outside the region realize just how important the famous San Antonio River Walk and sophisticated place-making strategies have been for the organic growth and success of the city. Within close proximity along the river, many independent businesses and attractions thrive. The newly renovated Henry B. González Convention Center, anchored right in the center, has always been one of the most easily accessible convention center districts in the country, thanks to the River Walk.
Government leaders today are continuing to embrace smart urban development that prioritizes public spaces, human connectivity, and multimodal mobility as mandated by the city’s SA2020 strategic vision. Investment dollars are flowing into the city’s visitor economy, including a 19-acre Hemisfair urban park project next to the convention center. Scheduled to be completed through 2024, the Hemisfair project integrates a 200-room hotel, locally-owned restaurants and retail, and expansive green spaces for open-air festivals and events. “If the locals are enjoying themselves, that gives convention delegates a chance to spend a day with San Antonians and enjoy Hemisfair with them,” said Andres Andujar, CEO of Hemisfair.
Sources: Skift (September 13, 2018) | Hemisfair | Image: Laura Pittaccio