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Board hears updates on a 160 MW battery project, park plans, and housing recovery
Summary
Michael Looney briefed the board on a planned 160 MW battery storage facility near the railport with an estimated 10‑year tax yield of about $4.7 million; Carl White reviewed river‑parks and playground projects; Galilee reported progress on affordable housing and flood recovery (123 homes closed; Ninth Street apartments near completion).
At its May 13 meeting the San Angelo Development Corporation received several briefings on planned projects and community recovery efforts.
Battery project: Michael Looney, vice president of economic development at the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce, described a 160‑megawatt battery energy storage system planned for roughly 18 acres near 28th Street west of the railport. He said construction is scheduled to begin in Q4 2027 with an expected 6–7 month build period and that a COCDC analysis estimates the 10‑year municipal tax yield at approximately $4,699,000. Looney also noted a second, 250‑MW facility is in pre‑construction several miles outside the city limits.
Parks and public art: Carl White, parks and recreation director, updated the board on five community projects including a civic‑venue feasibility study, Concho River bank stabilization design work (design ~80–90% complete; an end‑to‑end project to Bell Street could cost an estimated $12–15 million), the Koncho River Legacy Trail sculpture project (private fundraising underway, estimated private fundraising ~$8M toward a larger $20–30M vision), the Concho Connection pedestrian/lighting improvements, and plans to replace the Kids Kingdom playground (CIP currently shows $1.75M allocated for playground replacement and possible splash pad).
Housing and flood recovery: Stephanie Hamby, executive director of Galilee, reported one AHAP home closed this funding cycle, two in permitting and one under construction with four expected to close this year. Ninth Street Apartments (eight units for age 18–30) are nearing completion with rents projected at $450–$475 per month; an open house and ribbon cutting are planned in late May or early June. On flood recovery, Hamby said Galilee has closed about 123 homes and has 92 open files and 22 properties still needing assessment. She noted COCDC set aside $1 million for income‑qualified flood housing assistance and that total flood‑related spending to date is about $1.8 million, supported by volunteer and philanthropic partners.
Board reaction: Members asked follow‑up questions and were generally supportive of the projects presented. No formal board funding votes were taken on the battery project or parks items at the May 13 meeting.
