SAGE Eastside Public Market Plans Continues With Community Conversation This Wednesday
San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside, better known as SAGE, is moving its Eastside Public Market Complex plans from presentation to public conversation.
After sharing early proposals during the recent State of the Eastside event, SAGE is inviting residents to weigh in on what comes next during a community conversation on Wednesday, June 17, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bexar County “Greenies” Urban Farm, located at 1615 Sherman.
Greenies Urban Farm is a 10-acre agricultural and community development on San Antonio’s East Side, pushed by Bexar County Precinct 4 Commissioner Tommy Calvert. The project represents a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at fighting food insecurity and addressing the long-standing food desert on the Eastside of San Antonio.
Three Sites Under Consideration For Public Market Complex
The Eastside Public Market Complex was unveiled as part of SAGE’s broader effort to create a new economic and community anchor for the East Side. Working with architecture and design firm Able City, SAGE identified three possible locations: the historic Friedrich Refrigeration Building on Commerce Street, The Hugo at 1228 E. Houston St., and SAGE’s headquarters at 220 Chestnut St.
The planning process is supported by a $150,000 Community Economic Development Planning award, which is intended to help SAGE develop a community-informed business plan for the market complex.
Each proposed site would involve rehabilitating and renovating an existing building to support small businesses, office space, community programming and other neighborhood needs. The Friedrich site offers the largest indoor footprint at roughly 68,000 square feet, while The Hugo includes about 29,000 square feet, a basement and parking lot. The Chestnut Street option would lean more heavily on outdoor space and Ellis Alley.
SAGE CEO, James Nortey have said the goal is not just to create a market, but a “third space” where Eastside residents can gather, shop, eat, attend events and support local entrepreneurs without having to cross major highways to reach areas like Pearl or Brooks.
How To Stay Updated And Get Involved
Wednesday’s community conversation will focus on next steps for the Eastside Public Market Complex and give residents a chance to share feedback directly with SAGE and project organizers.
Community members can also sign up for SAGE’s Public Market Complex Planning Committee, which will help guide the project as it moves forward. SAGE is encouraging residents to provide thoughtful input as the organization works toward a final plan and continues seeking the funding needed to bring the plan to life.
