Bakke Zeroes in on Office Project in San Antonio Lone Star District

Bakke Development has cleared a hurdle on its way to developing a mixed-use project south of downtown San Antonio.

The local firm, led by CEO Phil Bakke, received approval from the city’s Historic and Design Review Commission to proceed with South Star, an office-focused development in the Lone Star District, the San Antonio Business Journal reported.

The HDRC’s seal of approval comes nearly a month after the Zoning Commission greenlighted the project. The site — encompassing 201 and 207 Roosevelt Avenue and 703 Lone Star Boulevard — was rezoned recently from industrial to commercial use.

Bakke has spent the last five years acquiring various parcels for the project, which is part of the 32-acre Lone Star District. With developers GrayStreet and Midway leading the charge, the $600 million Lone Star District will feature 100,000 square feet of office space, restaurants, entertainment venues, 250 multifamily units, a 15-mile trail network and a plethora of amenities.

South Star, designed by Alamo Architects, will be divided into two sections. The eastern side will be dedicated to office space, while the western side along the San Antonio River will emphasize community-focused areas, with gathering spaces and food trucks. The area closest to the river will also feature a beach, the outlet reported.

The developer has been directed by the Office of Historic Preservation to collaborate with the San Antonio River Authority for river access and adhere to Unified Development Code regulations regarding materials and landscaping. In addition, Bakke must submit comprehensive construction documents and a master plan before seeking final approval from the HDRC. There is no specified timeline for the project.

The Lone Star District is a redevelopment of the old Lone Star Brewery, constructed during the turn of the 20th century. In 2021, the city granted $24 million in public incentives to help fund the project.

—Quinn Donoghue