San Antonio Arboretum director voices concerns over nearby truck driving school plan

The San Antonio Zoning Commission meeting on July 15, 2025, focused on a proposed driving school and its implications for the surrounding area. The driving school aims to provide training for truck drivers, which proponents argue will create numerous job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth.

During the meeting, a representative highlighted the strategic location of the proposed school, noting its accessibility via major roads and proximity to other businesses. The speaker expressed optimism that the commission would approve the project, emphasizing its potential benefits for the community.

However, concerns were raised by Adriana Quiñones, the executive director of the San Antonio Arboretum. She pointed out that the proposed site is within 3,000 feet of the arboretum, which is intended to be a peaceful environment. Quiñones expressed worries about potential noise and air pollution from large trucks entering and exiting the driving school. She also mentioned that the arboretum's master plan had not clearly addressed how the new construction would affect emergency vehicle access.

While Quiñones did not oppose the project outright, she called for collaboration with the developers to address these concerns. The commission discussed the possibility of postponing the decision to allow for further dialogue between the parties involved.

The meeting underscored the balance between economic development and community well-being, as stakeholders sought to find a solution that would benefit both the driving school and the arboretum. The commission's next steps will likely involve further discussions to mitigate the impact of the new construction on the surrounding environment.