What to know about downtown SA road closures, improvement projects ahead of Final Four

SAN ANTONIO — If you’ve driven through downtown San Antonio, you’ve probably noticed the detours… and all the orange that’s taken over the heart of the city. 

South Alamo Street is undergoing major construction as part of the city’s push to get ready for the NCAA Final Four the first weekend in April. But what does that mean for your commute, local businesses and access to downtown? 

Here’s what you need to know.

The City of San Antonio is upgrading drainage, sidewalks, and utilities along South Alamo to improve the area for pedestrians and businesses. But in the meantime, traffic patterns are changing:

• South Alamo Street remains one-way southbound.
• Villita Street is closed through mid-March for sewer and storm drain work. Use South Presa Street as the best detour.
• Avenida Cesar Chavez will have alternating lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through early April for ADA ramp improvements.

“We know Public Works has been working really hard on the South Alamo construction, specifically to get ready for the NCAA tournament that’s going to be here,” said Meredith Baldwin, director of external relations at HemisFair.

While construction may seem overwhelming, Baldwin says there are still plenty of ways to navigate downtown efficiently.

“Construction can be a little daunting in downtown San Antonio, but it’s really nothing to fear. When you’re exiting off of I-37 on Cesar Chavez, you’ll have clear routes to get where you need to go,” she said.

For those heading downtown for the Final Four, there’s some relief: Construction will pause from April 4-7 to accommodate the influx of crowds of basketball fans.

City officials say temporary pedestrian paths, pavement markings and fencing adjustments will help improve walkability and access to businesses.

Nick Olivier, the public relations and marketing manager for the San Antonio Public Works Department, emphasized the city’s commitment to making the area safe and accessible.

“We will work with law enforcement to assist in traffic control,” he said. “All businesses, hotels and attractions will remain accessible. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, use alternate forms of transportation and arrive early.”

While the Final Four break will provide a temporary pause, the South Alamo construction project isn’t expected to wrap up until Spring 2026. Once complete, it will feature:

• Wider sidewalks
• Upgraded lighting
• Improved landscaping
• Enhanced drainage

Olivier says the transformation will make South Alamo more pedestrian-friendly, much like the Lower Broadway project that was recently completed.

If you’re driving downtown, here’s your quick traffic checklist:

• South Alamo is one-way southbound
• Villita remains closed (detour: South Presa)
• Nueva has partial closures
• Final Four weekend will have improved pedestrian access

As construction continues, drivers are encouraged to follow posted detours, plan ahead and allow for extra travel time.