Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

San Antonio's Main Plaza

San Antonio

TX

USA

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
August 18, 2011
May 1, 2024

Public Square

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Completed in April 2008, the $12 million renovation created a multitude of new additions to Main Plaza. Five new interactive fountains are located in the center, helping create a fun place for kids to play and patrons to congregate and engage the space.

Access & Linkages

In addition to being at the center of San Antonio, Main Plaza is effectively connected to the adjacent Riverwalk, a big downtown attraction.

Comfort & Image

Compared to the old Plaza, traffic calmed, walkability improved, better connected to nearby attractions, and better managed - including day-to-day operation of the plaza and programming.

Uses & Activities

A nonprofit organization, Main Plaza Conservancy, manages the day to day operations of the square. Main Plaza also features many performance and visual artists, as well as farmers selling produce. These changes have positioned the area as an important center of San Antonio culture, and the APA recently featured it in its list of Great Places in America: Public Spaces.

Sociability

The place is very social with a mixture of tourist and local visitors.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza
San Antonio's Main Plaza

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

Corrections or additions? Email info@pps.org
Comments