DECEMBER 19, 2024 — The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) shared updates today on the progress of the visionary Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) Centennial 2068 initiative, underscoring its commitment to community collaboration and its partnership with the Texas Historical Commission (THC).
As detailed in the April community update, the ITC museum paused operations in its former space in the Texas Pavilion earlier this year to prepare for its move to the Frost Tower while options for a permanent location continue to be explored. Since then, the museum has expanded outreach in local schools, taking demonstration items into the classroom and engaging long-time docents to tell the stories of the rich history of Texas. It has also maintained a presence at various cultural festivals and events to provide opportunities for meaningful engagements with the community.
In October, the THC voted in favor of designating the Texas Pavilion as a State Antiquities Landmark. The university has consistently recognized the historical significance of the Texas Pavilion and plans to honor its history through comprehensive documentation and storytelling in the new museum.
In support of these efforts and to maximize and monetize resources to support both the temporary and permanent homes of the ITC museum, the university’s development plans have continued to progress. This week, the THC issued UTSA its requested demolition permit to allow the outlined redevelopment plans of its Hemisfair campus.
As part of the process, UTSA will continue to partner with the THC to ensure the legacy of the Texas Pavilion is brought to life through community engagement and digital displays in the future museum. The City of San Antonio will also serve as an essential partner in these efforts, as UTSA works closely with the city and the THC to confirm the history of HemisFair ‘68 is honored and commemorated in meaningful ways.
The redevelopment of the ITC museum is part of UTSA’s larger vision for expansion in downtown San Antonio. Since 2015, UTSA’s enrollment has grown by nearly 7,000 students. As part of the university’s ongoing campus planning efforts, the institution aims to increase downtown enrollment to 10,000 students by 2028. UTSA’s academic and real estate investments in San Antonio’s urban core will continue to propel the university forward, with the future ITC museum serving as a key resource for the downtown community.
The ITC museum is anticipated to re-open in late 2025 in its interim home in the Frost Tower. As we look ahead, the ITC museum remains dedicated to exploring new, collaborative and innovative ways to bring the stories of the many cultures of Texas to life for generations of scholars and visitors to come.
