111 West Travis
PROJECT BACKGROUND AND GOALS
In September 2025, the San Antonio Housing Trust (SAHT) acquired the historic apartment building at 111 West Travis Street in downtown San Antonio, preserving an important source of affordable housing in the heart of the city that has become increasingly rare in the area.
Originally constructed as the Robert E. Lee Hotel in the early 1920s, the building was converted into affordable housing in the 1990s. By bringing the nearly century-old property into public stewardship, the Trust is helping ensure that downtown remains a place where people of different ages, incomes and abilities can continue to live and thrive.
SAHT is partnering with residents, Franklin Development, and Alamo Architects to implement a comprehensive renovation of the structure. The project will preserve the building’s historic character and modernize its essential systems, improve accessibility, and prepare it to serve residents for decades to come.
Of the 63 renovated apartments, 13 (about 20%) will be reserved for households earning 30% or less of the area median income (AMI), and the remaining 50 will be reserved for those earning 60% AMI or less.
Planned Renovations
Each element of the historic building requires attention – either complete replacement or repair – including air conditioning, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and structural. High-priority elements of the renovation plan include adding another elevator and stairwell and adhering to SAHT’s adopted Multi-Family Universal Design Standards, which go above and beyond ADA accessibility requirements.
Before that work starts, SAHT and consultant Urban Alchemy Collective launched a Resident Engagement and Renovation Plan process in November 2025, including a building-wide canvass and input sessions, that will continue though Summer 2026. During this time, we’re listening and learning directly from residents about their lived experiences, challenges, and aspirations for their building and community. Meanwhile, exploratory work has been performed on building systems and structures to determine the extent and cost of renovations and repairs.
These processes informed the final renovation and maintenance plans, from the style of light fixtures to enhanced safety features and waste disposal. It will also lead to adjustments to programming and amenities at the building, which is managed by Franklin Apartment Management. On-site services could include financial literacy and health programs. A fitness center and business center with free Wi-Fi will be added.
RELOCATION AND RIGHT-TO-RETURN PLAN
The renovation will temporarily close the building to tenants for two years. No resident will be required to move outside of the terms of their lease. Relocation will occur through the normal expiration and non-renewal of leases during the voluntary relocation period. As of early August 2026, 34 units were occupied.
The San Antonio Housing Trust and Franklin Management are working closely with each household to identify temporary housing or, for residents who prefer it, a permanent housing option elsewhere. Property management staff are meeting with residents individually to explain available assistance and support a stable transition. Current residents will have the right to return to the renovated property, provided they continue to meet applicable tax credit and lease requirements.
Residents will receive:
- Advance notice and regular updates on project timelines
- Payments for moving expenses, deposits, and applications
- Housing options that meet accessibility and household needs
- A designated contact for questions
- Clear information about the return process and eligibility requirements
HOW IT’S FUNDED
With competitive 9% Housing Tax Credits awarded by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) in July 2026, SAHT is well positioned to close financing in early 2027.
In addition to the housing credits, the $27 million renovation project is supported with a $4.5 million grant through the City of San Antonio’s 2022 Affordable Housing Bond.
TIMELINE
- September 2025: SAHT purchased building
- November 2025 – Summer 2026: Pre-rehabilitation planning and resident engagement; residents provide input on renovations, maintenance, operations, and programming
- April 2026: San Antonio City Council approves bond award
- July 2026: TDHCA approval of 9% tax credits
- August-November 30, 2026: Voluntary relocation period, aligned with lease expirations
- December 2026: Mandatory relocation period; all remaining households relocated
- 2027 – 2028: Construction and rehabilitation activities
- December 2028: Anticipated completion; residents return/leasing begins
COMMERCIAL SPACE
SAHT and Urban Alchemy Collective are currently collecting tenant and downtown stakeholder input to develop a vision for the one-story, ~4,000 sq. ft. commercial space attached to the apartment tower.
