The Alamo Plaza is a vital civic space for all San Antonians and visitors. The Alamo is currently threatened by a plan that will disconnect the Plaza from the rest of the city, and create an inhospitable, unwelcoming environment for visitors. The ‘Reimagine the Alamo’ Master Plan calls for a glass perimeter wall with controlled access, closure of streets surrounding the Alamo grounds, and the removal of the existing large shade trees and green space.   
        The Alamo Plaza should be an inclusive public space for all residents of San Antonio, rather than a controlled-access outdoor museum. Trees, shade, and connectivity to the rest of this city are critical elements of a successful public space. More public representation and feedback is needed to improve this plan, and create one that balances an inclusive storytelling of the history the Alamo with the civic needs for inclusive and vibrant downtown for all.
         When the City Council votes on this Master Plan on May 11th, we urge the Council to commit to extending the public engagement process to allow time for feedback and improvements to the Master Plan. It is imperative that San Antonio maintains Alamo Plaza as a truly civic space open to the public at all times.