San Antonio Phases Out Horse Carriages: Final Ban Set for 2030
The San Antonio City Council has voted to phase out horse-drawn carriage rides within the city over the next five years, marking the end of a tradition dating back to 1865. The 10-0 decision, with one abstention, adopts a compromise timeline to ban the carriages by January 2030. This decision follows years of debate over animal welfare, traffic concerns, and the financial impact on local carriage operators.
Key Points of the Phaseout Plan
- Timeline and Restrictions:
- No new permits or medallions will be issued.
- Operating hours will be gradually reduced:
- December 5, 2024 – May 31, 2027: 107 hours weekly.
- June 1, 2027 – May 31, 2028: 79 hours weekly.
- June 1, 2028 – December 31, 2029: 58 hours weekly.
- Transition Support:
- The city plans to assist business owners and employees through resource fairs, job training programs like Ready to Work, and access to business planning resources and loans.
Reactions from Stakeholders &
Carriage Companies
Carriage operators expressed disappointment, with attorney Art Martinez de Vara stating they may explore litigation or legislative measures to counter the ban. Many operators argued that their horses are treated humanely and pointed to the financial strain a ban would impose. According to the city, the companies face a collective debt of approximately $5 million. Operators also noted concerns about potential outcomes for the horses, including being sold to meat markets.
Animal Rights Activists
Supporters of the ban see the decision as a victory for animal welfare, though some, like activist Mariah Smith, believe the five-year timeline is too long. Advocates emphasized the ethical concerns of using horses for commercial purposes, regardless of care standards.
City Council
The council was divided on the phaseout timeline. Council members like Jalen McKee-Rodriguez supported a three-year plan, while others, including Phyllis Viagran, argued for the longer transition to ensure fairness. Councilwoman Teri Castillo criticized the decision, calling it an attack on small businesses while larger industries involving horses, such as rodeos, remain untouched.
Community Opinion
An online city survey with over 50,000 responses revealed a near-even split: 52% supported a ban, while 48% preferred alternative solutions, such as relocating the carriages to parks or maintaining the status quo.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
Horse-drawn carriages have been a part of San Antonio’s downtown charm for over a century. However, changing public attitudes toward animal use in entertainment and urban transportation, combined with safety and traffic concerns, have shifted perspectives.
While the decision leaves room for continued debate and potential legal challenges, the council has committed to ensuring that affected operators have access to resources for transitioning to new livelihoods. By 2030, the iconic sound of horse hooves in San Antonio’s streets will join the city’s history books.
