SAN ANTONIO – The demolition of the Texas Institute of Cultural Affairs has been temporarily suspended after a lawsuit filed by the San Antonio Conservation Association.
The association attempted to stop the demolition that began earlier this month and appeared in court Wednesday afternoon to prevent further destruction.
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Without a formal hearing, an agreement was reached between the Conservation Association and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). UTSA said the demolition so far not only promoted asbestos removal, but also ensured that no further demolition occurred at this time.
The historic building that Texas debuted when it displayed the pavilion at the 1968 World Fair is located in an area where billion-dollar sports and entertainment district development is scheduled. The Conservation Society advocates that buildings will be incorporated into these plans.
A revitalization plan for San Antonio’s ambitious downtown, Project Marvel aims to revitalize the city with a new expansion venue, including a modernised convention center, an improved Alamodame and a new Spurs home on the laboratory site.
“We wanted to make sure that while everything is not lost at this point, we are aware that we are not offensive in demolition of building elements while pursuing the permitted removal of asbestos.”
The parties are scheduled to return to court next Tuesday, and the judge will decide whether to suspend the dismantling or continue. If permitted, the building could be demolished by late May or early June.
