Not subscribed to local news but still want to stay up-to-date on the happenings around town? Look no further. Highlighting notable stories from external San Antonio news sources, State of the City summarizes the most captivating news headlines of the week. This week’s topics range from a groundbreaking ceremony at The Merc to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
New retail at The Merc
Merc broke ground on three new retail buildings and 30 acres of recreation and open space on Oct. 15. The Merc is slated to be a 112-acre mixed-use district similar to Pearl in downtown San Antonio. About 200,000 square feet will be dedicated to retail space. The development is located between UTSA Boulevard and West Hausaman Road. It currently consists of the Oxly and Lyric apartment complexes and the Boutique Aloft Hotel. Additional apartments, commercial development and green spaces are part of The Merc’s master plan.
Aquifer hits record low
The Edwards Aquifer is 37 feet below average for this time of year, measuring at 624.4’. This is the lowest level recorded since the creation of the Edwards Aquifer Authority in 1993. The aquifer accounts for 48.7% of San Antonio’s water supply. A lack of rainfalls during a typically rainy month is considered the primary cause for the depleted levels. San Antonio Water Systems customers will continue under Stage 3 restrictions, limiting landscape watering to once a week from 5-10 a.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight, depending on one’s address.
SNAP benefits face halting
Texas Health and Human Services Commission has announced SNAP benefits will not be issued if government shutdown continues past Oct. 27. Over 3.5 million people in Texas rely on the program for supplemental food assistance every month. The San Antonio Food Bank is preparing to assist SNAP recipients. However, the influx of thousands of furloughed federal employees utilizing its resources may cause the SAFD to ration to meet community needs.
