UTSA is moving forward with plans to temporarily house the Institute of Texan Cultures at Frost Tower, with the space expected to open by late 2025, while searching for a potential permanent location.
The museum paused operations in the Texas State Exhibits Pavilion over the summer to prepare for its move to Frost Tower. The Pavilion, built for the 1968 World’s Fair, has housed the museum for over 50 years.
Earlier this week, the Texas Historical Commission approved the University of Texas at San Antonio’s request for a demolition permit to proceed with redeveloping the Hemisfair campus.
University officials first announced in April its plans to demolish the structure, put the property up for sale and use the proceeds to relocate the museum. The redevelopment of the institute is part of UTSA’s broader plan to expand in downtown San Antonio, the university said in a community update. Since 2015, UTSA’s downtown enrollment has grown by nearly 7,000 students, with a goal to reach 10,000 students by 2028.
UTSA’s plans to demolish the Texas Pavilion building to align with the city’s plans to possibly make way for a new Spurs basketball arena as part of Project Marvel.
In October, the Texas Historical Commission voted in favor of designating the Texas Pavilion as a State Antiquities Landmark. Despite its planned demolition, UTSA said it plans to honor the building’s history through “comprehensive documentation and storytelling” in the new museum.
“As part of the process, UTSA will continue to partner with the THC to ensure the legacy of the Texas Pavilion is brought to life through community engagement and digital displays in the future museum,” UTSA said in its update. “The City of San Antonio will also serve as an essential partner in these efforts, as UTSA works closely with the city and the [Texas Historical Commission] to confirm the history of HemisFair ‘68 is honored and commemorated in meaningful ways.”
UTSA entered into a memorandum of understanding with the city and 1859 Historic Hotels, owners of the Crockett Hotel, to potentially build a new museum on what is currently a hotel parking lot near Alamo Plaza.
In the meantime, the museum has increased its outreach in local schools by bringing items into classrooms and involving longtime volunteers to share Texas history, UTSA said. The museum also is still participating in local cultural festivals and events to connect with the community.