The Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation announced on Mar. 9 that Melissa Robinson has been appointed as its new CEO, taking over leadership of the San Antonio district as it enters a significant stage of redevelopment.
Robinson’s appointment comes at a time when Hemisfair is considering major changes, including the possible addition of a new arena for the San Antonio Spurs. The district, which covers 96 acres just south of downtown, is being transformed from the former site of the 1968 World’s Fair into a mixed-use civic area with parks, restaurants, housing, and cultural attractions.
Robinson previously served four years on the board of Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation and became interim CEO in April 2025 after longtime chief Andres Andujar retired. Her experience in real estate and construction spans nearly three decades, which will be important as Hemisfair looks to integrate large developments like a potential arena while maintaining its focus on human-scale parks and historic features.
A key element in the ongoing redevelopment is the Tower of the Americas, an iconic structure from the original fairgrounds. Robinson said that completing Tower Park around this landmark could create more opportunities for development nearby. She also emphasized that future projects should “capitalize on the history and the historic structures while at the same time pushing ourselves to deliver something new that can be transformative.”
The next phase of Hemisfair’s buildout will likely require additional philanthropic support and public funding. As plans move forward, observers are watching how these developments might reshape both Hemisfair and downtown San Antonio.
