$1.34 Billion Invested, More Than 300 Acres Remain to Develop
What began as a decommissioned military base has evolved into a national model for urban redevelopment. Brooks has transformed its 1,308-acre campus into a bustling hub of development, innovation, and community life, with more than 300 acres remaining for future development. This remarkable progress was celebrated at the bi-annual State of Brooks address, hosted by the South Texas Business Partnership, where leaders reflected on achievements and looked ahead at what the future holds.
“Growing up in this region, I’ve seen firsthand the transformation of Brooks from a military installation to a thriving community,” added Dr. Lorraine Pulido, Chair of the Brooks Board of Directors. “It is an honor to help guide this next chapter of growth. We are committed to ensuring that Brooks continues to serve as a catalyst for positive change, providing opportunities and creating a vibrant environment for the greater Southside community and beyond.”
Since Brooks Development Authority took control in 2001, the Brooks region has seen a surge in economic activity, with more than $1.34 billion invested on campus. Highlights from the Brooks Economic Impact Report, provided by TXP, Inc., include:
● Economic Growth: The Brooks regional area has seen a 36 percent increase in household income, outpacing the city’s 32 percent increase over the same period.
● Business Hub: Brooks is now home to more than 50 businesses, including six international companies and two U.S. Headquarters, making it a hub of economic activity. These businesses span various industries, contributing to the diversity and resilience of the local economy.
● Job Creation: Brooks currently supports more than 3,000 jobs on campus, with projections indicating more than 4,400 jobs in the near future, making it one of the largest employment centers in the region.
● Residential Expansion: Brooks is home to ten residential options, encompassing both multi-family and single-family developments. With additional single-family and multi-family housing currently under construction, projections estimate Brooks will be home to more than 7,500 residents over the next five years.
● Community Impact: The high school graduation rate in the Brooks area has increased by 10 percent, while both the unemployment rate and poverty rate have declined by four percent and two percent, respectively, over the same period.
“Brooks is a model for what smart, community-focused development can achieve,” said Rebecca Viagran, President and CEO of the South Texas Business Partnership. “The spirit of collaboration and innovation that has driven Brooks’ transformation will continue to propel this community forward, setting an example for how we can build vibrant, sustainable futures across the region.”
Brooks’ redevelopment has catalyzed further growth beyond the boundaries of campus, highlighted by the development of the nearby 600-acre VIDA community, led by Southstar Communities, and the expansion of Texas A&M University-San Antonio, both of which are enhancing educational, residential, and commercial opportunities in the area. Other significant projects underway, including a 2,000-acre master-planned community being developed by VersaTerra and the upcoming Arboretum San Antonio, are driving investment and contributing to the broader transformation of South San Antonio.
As Brooks approaches its next phase of development, the focus will be on maximizing the potential of the remaining 300 acres still to be developed. Plans include attracting new businesses, expanding residential opportunities, and continuing to invest in infrastructure that supports long-term growth.
“Brooks has proven that with the right vision, commitment, and team, we can turn a challenge into an opportunity that benefits the entire region,” said Leo Gomez, President and CEO of Brooks. “As we look ahead, our focus is on ensuring that the remaining development continues to foster growth, attract jobs and improve the quality of life for all those who live, work, learn, play and stay across the greater Brooks community.”