San antonio Invests $20 Million to Transform Historic Fort Sam Building into Military Health Hub
SAN ANTONIO, TX – San Antonio and Bexar County are committing a combined $20 million to renovate a 1930s-era building at Fort Sam Houston, preparing it to house the Defense Health Agency (DHA). The investment aims to attract jobs and economic activity as the DHA consolidates operations, with officials emphasizing the city’s readiness to partner with the new management’s goals.
The project focuses on the historic Merchants Ice building, poised to become a key component of the military health system. City and county leaders believe the renovations will not only support the DHA’s mission but also inject millions of dollars into the local economy through job creation and increased spending. Every uniform assigned to the city represents a job, and those individuals and their families contribute to schools, housing, and local businesses, according to city officials.
“This has been a tangible investment. It is something that we’ve committed to,” City Manager Erik Walsh told the city council Thursday.
The unanimous council vote to seek additional state funding signals a strong commitment to supporting Fort Sam Houston’s growth. Bexar County is also planning to pursue state funds. The DHA did not respond to a request for comment Thursday, citing the ongoing goverment shutdown.
Former Pentagon official and current city representative Elizabeth Jones underscored the importance of San Antonio presenting a unified front to the federal government. “Having been on the other side of this, it’s about, how do we make sure folks understand we are ready and willing to partner?” she said.
the renovations at Fort Sam Houston are part of a larger effort to modernize and consolidate military health operations, positioning San Antonio as a vital hub for the DHA.