Developer Gilley Mendoza, founder of Gilley International Group, detailed his strategy for transforming South San Antonio's underdeveloped corridors during an appearance on The Building Texas Show. As a first-generation developer with deep roots in the community, Mendoza emphasized building generational opportunity through real estate projects that align with local workforce needs.
The South Side region between Loop 410 and Loop 1604 represents one of Texas' most promising growth areas, according to Mendoza. While North San Antonio has reached full development, the southern arc remains largely greenfield with significant potential. "For the next 20 years, there is room for growth for everybody," Mendoza noted during the interview hosted by Texas business leader Justin McKenzie.
Major institutional anchors are driving the region's momentum, including Palo Alto College directly across from Mendoza's flagship development, Texas A&M University–San Antonio with its 700-acre master plan, and expanding advanced manufacturing operations from companies like Toyota and JCB. These factors position the South Side as Texas' next major workforce, education, and housing cluster.
Mendoza unveiled new details about Villaret Commons, an 80-unit mixed residential community designed specifically for first-generation homeowners, students, and the expanding workforce. Located directly across from Palo Alto College, the project features 19 duplexes and 42 single-family homes with horizontal construction including roads and utilities scheduled for completion within 45 days.
Unlike large institutional builders, Gilley International emphasizes "approachable housing" priced between $250,000 and $300,000 to match South Side manufacturing and trade salaries. "I didn't say it was 'affordable' housing," Mendoza explained. "But we are intentionally building homes in that range because that's where the community's workforce is. That's the opportunity."
Mendoza openly discussed the challenges of developing in neighborhoods where he grew up, acknowledging resident skepticism toward developers while emphasizing transparency and community engagement. "Most people on the South Side want better retail, better housing, better options," he said. "I grew up here. I'm willing to do the work, have the conversations, and build what this community deserves."
Host Justin McKenzie praised Mendoza's approach as "the best kind of development we can hope for—local investors reinvesting in their own community with intention, long-term thinking, and respect for San Antonio's heritage." The full interview is available at https://youtu.be/TWo74ePiNSQ.
This development strategy matters because it addresses San Antonio's critical housing shortage while creating pathways to homeownership for the region's essential workforce. As major employers expand operations and educational institutions grow, providing housing that matches local salaries prevents displacement and supports sustainable economic development. Mendoza's community-rooted approach demonstrates how responsible development can balance growth with neighborhood preservation, offering a model for other rapidly expanding regions facing similar challenges.
