History / Culture
The San Antonio River Walk grew from a flood-control project into an urban landmark
The Paseo del Rio—San Antonio's River Walk—began as a flood-control effort in the early 20th century and was transformed over decades into a 13-mile linear park that runs from Brackenridge Park through downtown to the Spanish missions.
The River Walk's story starts with flooding. Downtown San Antonio flooded repeatedly in the early 1900s. After a devastating 1921 flood, the city looked for solutions. Architect Robert H. H. Hugman proposed keeping the horseshoe bend in the river and building a pedestrian walkway lined with shops and restaurants. Workers from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) built his design. It was dedicated in April 1941.
For years the River Walk was little used and seen as unsafe. It got new life when the city planned HemisFair '68—San Antonio's world's fair, marking the 250th anniversary of the city's founding. Hotels, restaurants, and shops opened along the walk. It became one of the most visited urban parks in Texas.
Today the River Walk extends 13 miles from Brackenridge Park through downtown and south to Mission Espada. The San Antonio River Authority keeps the flood infrastructure along the river. The city's parks department manages the River Walk itself. For a full history, see the Texas State Historical Association's Handbook at tshaonline.org.
Source to confirm: TSHA Handbook – San Antonio River Walk (Paseo del Rio)