Texas is experiencing a surge in commercial construction heading into 2025, and San Antonio is no exception. With projects spanning manufacturing and energy to healthcare and hospitality, San Antonio continues to rise as a hub of commercial construction opportunities. Let’s look at San Antonio’s commercial construction trends, some exciting projects to track and what may be affecting development.
Some of the biggest trends in commercial construction include the use of sustainability, energy-efficient systems and mixed-use development.
Sustainability
No longer an unconventional concept in commercial construction, there has been a visible shift in the use of green building materials that are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. From Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) steel to low-VOC paint, sustainable materials are here to stay.
Historical Building Renovation
Historical buildings are being reimagined for modern and future use, often breathing new life into old buildings. Commercial construction renovation project typically involves converting historical buildings into more modern commercial spaces while maintaining the heritage.
Mixed-Use Development
We’re seeing more flexible workspaces that can adapt to a variety of needs, including private offices, virtual meeting rooms and even retail space on the first floors of apartments and condos.
San Antonio International Airport expansion
Investment: $1.4 billion
This terminal expansion project is set to be completed in 2028 and will transform the city’s airport, adding 17 more gates and accommodating the need for rising air travel demand. The project consists of an 832,000-square-foot space that is nearly double the size of the two existing terminals combined. It is part of a $2.5 billion strategic development program that will help elevate San Antonio’s traveler experience for both residents and visitors and help accommodate future growth.
La Villita Assembly Hall renovation
Investment: $10 million
Looking to better connect the historical La Villita Assembly Hall to the San Antonio River Walk, this commercial renovation project is planning to redevelop the historic building into a food and beverage project with almost 50,000 square feet of leasable space. Originally constructed in 1958, the redevelopment will include repairs to the existing building, updates to outdoor spaces, and refashioning a plaza as a gathering and entertainment space. Slated to complete in 2027, Kopplow Construction is especially excited to be involved as commercial general contractors for the project.
JCB Manufacturing Plant
Investment: $500 million
British construction and agricultural equipment maker JCB recently broke ground on a 720,000-square-foot manufacturing plant on the fast-growing South Side. Set to complete in October 2026, this is the company’s largest investment to date. It is expected to lead to job growth for our city, up to 1,500 new jobs, and expanding the North American manufacturing network for JCB.
Driven by a surge of new residents, business locations and more, we expect to see growth across various industries. This will lead to high demand for energy, water and infrastructure investments. Anticipated interest rate cuts will push projects forward; however, the persistent labor shortage in commercial construction will remain a challenge.
At Kopplow Construction, we’re excited to see the immense opportunity for San Antonio in commercial construction on the horizon. As a leading commercial construction company and contractor, we’re your trusted partner in shaping the future of Texas growth. Explore our construction and pre-construction services and recent projects today.