Centro San Antonio: Company Profile

Background

Centro San Antonio is a nonprofit placemaking organization dedicated to enhancing downtown San Antonio's vibrancy, beauty, and prosperity. Established in 1982 as the Downtown Owners Association, Centro has evolved to become the steward of the Public Improvement District (PID), covering approximately one square mile of the city's most iconic and historic areas. The organization's mission is to create a welcoming and dynamic urban environment that reflects the unique spirit of San Antonio.

Key Strategic Focus

Centro's strategic initiatives encompass:

Clean and Safe Services: Operating seven days a week, Centro's ambassadors provide cleaning, maintenance, and safety services to ensure a pristine and secure downtown environment.

Economic Development: Supporting small businesses through programs like the Main Street Small Business Support, offering grants and resources to foster a resilient downtown economy.

Cultural Placemaking: Initiatives such as "Art Everywhere" and the activation of Peacock Alley aim to infuse public spaces with art and cultural activities, enhancing the downtown experience.

Homeless Outreach: Collaborating with organizations like Corazon Ministries to provide outreach and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness.

Financials and Funding

Centro San Antonio operates as a nonprofit organization, primarily funded through assessments from property owners within the PID and supplemented by city contributions. The organization's estimated annual revenue is approximately $3.5 million, with a staff of around 35 employees.

Pipeline Development

Centro's ongoing projects include:

Catalytic Projects Web Map: Launched in March 2023, this interactive tool tracks over 66 public and private development projects in downtown San Antonio, representing an estimated $3 billion in investment.

Storefront Resiliency Initiative: Offering grants to help businesses prevent and respond to unexpected property damage, supporting the sustainability of downtown enterprises.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Centro leverages technology to enhance its services:

SMART System: A mobile application with geolocation features that tracks ambassador activities, ensuring efficient cleaning and maintenance operations.

Interactive Development Map: Provides real-time updates on downtown development projects, fostering transparency and community engagement.

Leadership Team

Trish DeBerry, President and CEO: A native San Antonian with a degree from Trinity University, Trish has led successful campaign initiatives for 25 years that have significantly impacted the community. Before joining Centro, she founded two full-service marketing and communications firms headquartered in downtown San Antonio.

Andi Rodriguez, Vice President of Cultural Placemaking: With an MS in Architecture/Urban Planning, Andi leads Centro's cultural initiatives, including the "Art Everywhere" program and Zona Cultural. She has served on the Leadership Council of Urban Land Institute and is a former city Planning Commissioner.

Jacqueline Lucio, Director of Downtown Experience: Overseeing Clean & Safe and Homeless Outreach services, Jacque has been actively involved in the transformation of downtown San Antonio for nearly two decades. She has a background in mass communications and Mexican-American studies from UTSA.

Leadership Changes

In 2019, Matt Brown was appointed CEO, succeeding interim CEO Warren Wilkinson. Under Brown's leadership, Centro expanded its focus to include public art, small business support, and homelessness initiatives.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

San Antonio's downtown area is experiencing significant investment, with over $3 billion in development projects underway. The city's diverse cultural heritage and growing economy present opportunities for organizations focused on urban development and community engagement.

Competitor Analysis

Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center: A nonprofit arts organization located in San Antonio's West Side, focusing on Chicano, Mexican, Latino, and Native American arts and culture.

Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation: Manages the redevelopment of Hemisfair Park, aiming to create a vibrant mixed-use urban district.

San Antonio River Walk Association: Promotes and maintains the River Walk, a key downtown attraction.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Centro collaborates with various organizations to enhance downtown San Antonio:

Corazon Ministries: Partnering to provide homeless outreach services.

City of San Antonio: Working together on public improvement projects and urban development initiatives.

Local Businesses and Property Owners: Engaging stakeholders within the PID to support economic development and community programs.

Operational Insights

Centro's comprehensive approach to placemaking, combining clean and safe services, economic development, cultural initiatives, and homeless outreach, distinguishes it from competitors. Its ability to adapt and expand services in response to community needs positions it as a leader in downtown revitalization.