Background
The need for an assessment of existing conditions and recommendations for improvements within the World Heritage Buffer and along the World Heritage Trail was identified as part of the community process. A beautification assessment was completed in June of 2016. The World Heritage Beautification Assessment identifies potential strategies and opportunities to improve the visual character and perceived safety, comfort, and function of spaces within the World Heritage Trail corridor. Residents and visitors alike will benefit from the recommended improvements outlined in the document.
Branded Banners
The Assessment identified developing standard banner graphics for use along vehicular routes mounted on existing light poles as a way to reinforce wayfinding. In 2016, branded banners were installed along the World Heritage Trail.
Photo Banners
In 2016 and 2017, banners with historic photos, gathered as part of the Office of Historic Preservation’s cultural mapping project were installed. Photos banners were installed to serve not only as wayfinding, but also to exhibit the rich historical and cultural heritage of the area. View the map to find locations and see the online image gallery.
Public Art Opportunities
Another of the physical improvements recommended was to identify and develop public art opportunities along the World Heritage Trail. As a result, in fiscal year 2017 the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture and World Heritage Office began collaborating with community partners and other City departments on a multi-site public art project.
The World Heritage Mural Trail is a series of functional murals placed in key areas along the route, in order to reinforce and enhance the visitor experience, while also providing an aesthetic vision that reflects the rich history and culture of the missions, people and neighborhoods within the area.
The project includes installations at Stinson Municipal Airport; Villamain Road at the Loop 410 underpass; Mission Parkway at Southeast Military Road; and US 90 at Roosevelt Avenue, Steves Avenue, Mission Road, and Presa Street.
The first mural installation at Stinson Municipal Airport was dedicated in May 2017. The final installation, the US 90 underpasses, was dedicated in April 2018.