Program expands to address nuisance caused by vacant homes in neighborhoods.

San Antonio Takes Action to Address Vacant Buildings and Improve Public Safety

In a bid to tackle the root cause of vacancy and enhance public safety, the City of San Antonio has launched a crackdown on vacant buildings that are causing trouble in neighborhoods. This initiative not only aims to mitigate safety risks but also seeks to promote economic development.

Just recently, a fire ravaged an empty house in the 200 block of Briggs Avenue on the southwest side, causing extensive damage to a neighboring home. Residents in the area have reported that the property had been sitting vacant before trespassers started camping out. This incident highlights the urgent need for measures to address the issues associated with vacant buildings.

Esperanza Sierra, a resident in the 200 block of Briggs, expressed her concerns about the neighborhood, stating that vacant houses attract drug users and other individuals who engage in illegal activities. Sierra, who relocated to the area from California five years ago, now plans to move out due to the deteriorating situation.

To combat these challenges, the City’s Office of Historic Preservation has implemented the Vacant Building Program (VBP). By repurposing vacant buildings and putting them to productive use, the program aims to prevent incidents such as the recent fire. Shanon Miller, the Director of San Antonio’s Office of Historic Preservation, emphasized the importance of addressing vacancy as it relates to public safety and the risk of fire.

Initially introduced as a pilot program in 2015, the Vacant Building Program has steadily expanded over the years. In January of this year, it underwent another expansion, extending its coverage area to include homes within 1,000 feet of schools and state-licensed daycares, in addition to properties within a half-mile of active military bases, historic districts, and conservation districts.

Under the program, owners of vacant properties within the designated coverage area must register their properties and ensure they are maintained in good condition. Miller stressed the significance of maintaining the appearance of these properties to prevent negative impacts on property values and avoid creating nuisances.

The City has provided resources for property owners to help them properly maintain their vacant homes. Additionally, members of the public can report vacant properties that do not meet the program’s standards within their neighborhoods. It is worth noting that the property on Briggs Avenue, where the recent fire occurred, falls outside the coverage area of the Vacant Building Program.

As San Antonio takes proactive measures to address the challenge of vacant buildings, the hope is that these efforts will not only enhance public safety but also foster economic development in the affected neighborhoods. Residents like Esperanza Sierra can hopefully experience improved living conditions and regain a sense of security in their communities.

If you come across a vacant home that does not meet the program’s standards or falls within the coverage area, you can report it by visiting [reporting website] or contacting 210-207-7244. Together, the City and its residents can work towards a safer and more vibrant San Antonio.