‘Hands off our homes’: Southwest Side residents rally together as city reviews flood prevention plans

SAN ANTONIO – Residents of the Southwest Side in San Antonio are banding together to fight for their homes amid changes in the city’s flood prevention plans. Previously, the City presented three proposals in response to the Concepcion Creek Drainage Project, which could lead to the displacement of more than one hundred families from their homes to solve flooding issues.

Community Outcry to the Proposed Plans

Cynthia Vallejo, a Southwest Side resident, said, “I just hope that something comes of this and that they hear our voices.” Like many in her community, Vallejo said that she and her neighbors deserve a fair chance to fight for their homes.

The Concepcion Creek Drainage Project aims to address potential flooding mapped in the updated FEMA floodplain. If no measures are adopted and a 100-year flood event takes place, thousands of homes could be put at risk. But, the current proposed plans have put more than 100 homes on the chopping block, leading to community outcry and protests.

Back to the Drawing Board

The city officials have heard the cries of the people. After a series of nearly a dozen community meetings, San Antonio Councilwoman Teri Castillo, District 5, confirmed that they are going back to the drawing board to formulate alternative plans to save more families from relocation. “We’re hopeful that there will be alternative plans that would have less impact,” Castillo remarked.

The Delay Factor: Largely Unfunded Project

One major roadblock to the plan’s implementation is the lack of funds. Castillo noted that the city will have to turn to state and federal agencies for financial support. “This is something that the City in San Antonio cannot fully fund alone,” she said.

The Fight Goes On

In the meantime, residents who stand at risk of losing their homes continue voicing their resistance. Homeowner, Michaeleen McInturff, passionately stated, “That house is my sanctuary. There has to be other options.” McInturff isn’t alone in her sentiments. Fellow homeowner, Eddie Medina, added, “It’s heartbreaking. We’re still going to fight ‘til the very end.”

What Next?

As the community continues to rally and voice their concerns, they hold their breath for Summer 2025 when the new proposals for the project should be completed. Until then, the message remains clear: “Hands off our homes”.

About the Authors:

Avery Everett is a news reporter and multimedia journalist at KSAT 12 News. A native of Philadelphia, Avery is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking and biking during her free time. She also has a sweet tooth for charcuterie boards and chocolate chip cookies and is eager to explore the culinary richness of San Antonio, one taco at a time.

Ricardo Moreno is a photojournalist at KSAT. Hailing from San Antonio, Ricardo is not just a journalist but also a gifted screenwriter and filmmaker, lending an unmatched perspective to news stories. An ardent fitness enthusiast, Ricardo might be found pursuing his fitness goals or spending quality time with his family and his Chow Chow when he’s not reporting.