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September 09.2025

2 Minutes Read

Revitalizing San Antonio's Aerospace Dreams: From Kelly Air Force Base to Port San Antonio

Panel discussion on Kelly Air Force Base transformation in modern studio.

Transforming Legacy: From Military to Innovation Hub

The closure of Kelly Air Force Base, a cornerstone of San Antonio's economy and a significant job provider for the local Latino community, marked a poignant moment for residents. But rather than succumb to loss, the city embraced the challenge, transforming the base into Port San Antonio, a vibrant center for aerospace innovation that today boasts over 19,000 jobs. In a recent episode of the bigcitysmalltown podcast, local leaders discussed this remarkable transition, emphasizing how community resilience and strategic planning paved the way for this progressive shift.

Community Collaboration: A Vision for the Future

Key figures in the transformation, such as attorney Tullos Wells, highlighted the collaborative efforts that were essential to reinvigorate the site. After the base's closure in 2001, city officials and residents pivoted to create commercial spaces enticing new businesses. Their dedication ensured that rather than a period of stagnation, the community rallied to repurpose resources for future growth.

Educational Opportunities: Fueling the Next Generation

The Dee Howard Foundation, led by Christopher Mammen, is at the forefront of fostering educational opportunities for local youth, ensuring they are not just beneficiaries of this dynamic ecosystem but key players in its future. Programs that expose students to aerospace technology are vital in preparing them for careers in this field. As Mammen noted, ensuring community youth understand the industry's potential is crucial for long-term success.

The Future of Aviation: Integrating Innovation

Innovative initiatives such as the development of a vertiport for electric aircraft promise exciting advancements in local transportation within the next decade. Mammen confirmed that testing of this technology will occur at Port San Antonio soon. These advancements signify both progress and the potential for sustainable transport solutions that could reshape local infrastructure.

Astronautical Aspirations: Pioneering Lunar Projects

Project collaborations with the Wex Foundation aim to explore further beyond Earth. Kathryn Bolish discussed exciting initiatives involving lunar exploration, including the potential for habitation in lunar caves and the development of construction techniques using lunar regolith. Such endeavors reflect a collaboration between education and cutting-edge research aimed at meeting the challenges of the future.

The collective efforts and innovative strategies at Port San Antonio present a model of how communities can thrive after a significant loss and serve as an inspiration for similar transformations nationwide.

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Revitalizing San Antonio's Aerospace Dreams: From Kelly Air Force Base to Port San Antonio

Transforming Legacy: From Military to Innovation Hub

Community Collaboration: A Vision for the Future

Educational Opportunities: Fueling the Next Generation

The Future of Aviation: Integrating Innovation

Astronautical Aspirations: Pioneering Lunar Projects

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