The first Project DC Working Group meeting brought together community partners, institutional representatives, and local stakeholders to begin shaping priorities for the future of the Cattleman Square district.
The session introduced the goals of Project DC and the role of the working group in guiding the planning process. Participants also shared perspectives on the current conditions of the district, long-term aspirations, and the key challenges that must be addressed to ensure equitable and lasting impact.
How Participants Described the District Today
Participants described the Cattleman Square district as a place with both challenges and significant potential. Words such as potential, opportunity, and transit hub appeared alongside disinvestment, homelessness, unsafe, forgotten, and hard to navigate.
This contrast reflected a shared understanding that the district has important assets — including location and history — but also faces visible challenges that must be addressed.
Aspirations for Project DC
Participants expressed a strong desire for Project DC to:
- Honor and preserve the history and culture of the Westside
- Build and protect affordable housing
- Create a more vibrant and active district
- Improve connectivity and access to services
- Ensure the district serves the community first
Several responses emphasized that the project should revitalize rather than replace the neighborhood and should strengthen the community that already exists there.
What the District Could Become
Participants imagined a future where Cattleman Square is known for:
- Being a gateway to the Westside
- Celebrating Mexican and Westside cultural history
- Offering multigenerational and inclusive spaces
- Providing a place where people can live, work, and gather
Many responses highlighted the importance of authenticity and ensuring that future investment reflects the identity of the community.
Key Priorities Identified
When asked about the most important priorities for equitable impact, several themes consistently emerged:
Housing and affordability
- Deeply affordable housing
- Housing for all income levels
- Addressing homelessness
Connectivity and mobility
- Walkability and bike/ped infrastructure
- Transit connectivity
- Wayfinding and improved access across barriers
Community needs and services
- Access to food and grocery options
- Local businesses and retail
- Community spaces and services
Cultural preservation
- Protecting historic and cultural assets
- Maintaining the identity of the Westside community
Connectivity, housing, homelessness, and safety were among the most frequently mentioned priorities.
Anticipated Barriers
Participants also discussed potential challenges that could affect implementation. The most frequently cited barriers included:
- Funding and financial resources
- Political will and policy alignment
- Infrastructure limitations
- Addressing homelessness and social services needs
- Safety and perception of the area
These responses highlighted the importance of coordination between community organizations, the City, and institutional partners.
Who Should Be Involved
Participants suggested additional voices that should be included as the process moves forward, including:
- Neighborhood residents and tenant groups
- Small and legacy businesses
- Local property owners
- Community organizations
- UTSA and local educational institutions
- Public safety and social service providers
The discussion reinforced the importance of continuing to expand participation to ensure the planning process reflects the broader community.
