Bexar County voters have weighed in on a controversial proposition to use public funds to build a new San Antonio Spurs arena downtown. According to county election officials, Proposition B has passed with roughly 52.14 percent support, paving the way for Project Marvel to move forward. Proposition A, related to proposed improvements to the East Side’s Frost Bank Center and Freeman Coliseum, was also approved at 55.91 percent.

Proposition B: The downtown arena and Project Marvel
Proposition B centered on Project Marvel, the $1.3 billion redevelopment that will bring a new San Antonio Spurs arena — and an entire entertainment district — to the heart of downtown. The plan envisions an expanded convention center, a convention hotel tower, upgraded Alamodome facilities, new retail and residential spaces, and improved infrastructure. Earlier plans for a land bridge spanning Interstate 37 are no longer in play.

Under the cost-sharing model approved by voters, Bexar County will contribute $311 million, the City of San Antonio will provide $489 million, and the Spurs will invest $500 million, plus cover any cost overruns. The Bexar County commitment will be funded by raising the city’s hotel occupancy tax from 1.75% to 2% starting in 2026 and extending an existing rental car tax. Revenue from those sources will be used to pay off project-related debt.

The proposition drew fervent opinions from both sides. Supporters framed Project Marvel as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to spark downtown revitalization, boost tourism, and secure the Spurs’ long-term presence in San Antonio. They emphasized that the funding mechanism relies on visitor-based taxes, not local property taxes, arguing that the financial burden would fall on tourists rather than residents.

Opponents countered that Project Marvel represents an unnecessary public spending risk, noting that much of the funding still comes from public sources, even if it’s visitor-driven. Critics argued that hotel and rental car tax revenue could be better spent elsewhere, such as maintaining existing venues like the Frost Bank Center, where the Spurs are leased through 2032. Community groups also voiced concerns about transparency, long-term debt, and whether downtown development would come at the expense of neighborhood investment and affordability.

Proposition A: Freeman Coliseum and Frost Bank Center upgrades
While Prop B garnered most of the election season buzz, Proposition A focused on keeping the East Side vibrant if the Spurs move downtown. The passed measure funds $191.8 million in upgrades for the Freeman Coliseum and Frost Bank Center, transforming the district into a year-round hub for livestock shows, rodeos, concerts, and expos.

County leaders say the facilities need expensive repairs soon, and Prop A would help cover those costs while also rebranding the area as a multipurpose “coliseum district.” A May 27 county presentation laid out plans for new exhibition halls, which could host everything from pickleball tournaments to trade shows.

Officials also envision an annual county fair, FFA and 4-H conventions, horse shows, and other events to keep the complex generating revenue all year long.