This series provides readers the opportunity to learn about the unique insight and experiences of the San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) Board of Directors and their personal connection to the San Antonio River in hopes of inspiring stewardship of area creeks and rivers.
Jerry Gonzales, Bexar County District 1
Jerry Gonzales was born and raised on the Southside of San Antonio. He raised a family in the same community in which he is highly involved in preserving and renewing. This passion fueled him to join the River Authority board in 2013, where he currently serves as the Board Secretary. Jerry is an enthusiastic supporter of the Westside Creeks Ecosystem Restoration Project.
What have been your goals and top priorities as a River Authority board member?
A goal of mine this year has been to increase opportunities for recreation along the river, but a larger goal I have is to for the San Antonio River to meet the swimmable standard. Not many people know this, but on the average day, many sections of the San Antonio River meet the swimming standard. Before my time ends on the board, I want to have a swimming event in the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River Walk. Over the years, we have been able to introduce ways for families to interact with the river, including the miles of paddling available along the Mission Reach. It would be great to introduce a refreshing opportunity to swim in the San Antonio River. When I was younger, I learned how to swim around Concepción Park, and I would like to be able to see new generations do the same.
Jerry, along with fellow board members, Chairman of the Board Jim Campbell and General Manager Derek Boese, on a trip to Washington D.C.
The River Authority has several signature events coming up before the end of the year. Is there one that you’re most excited about?
The River Authority’s annual River of Lights celebration is my favorite event of the year. River of Lights is a great, family-friendly event that attracts over 3000 people every year to celebrate the holidays along the illuminated river. I love to take my grandkids to look at the lights and festive decorations and meet Santa. I enjoy watching them take part in all the holiday-themed activities, like decorating cookies and making hot cocoa. Plus, it is not every day that you get to see snow on the Museum Reach!
This year’s River of Lights celebration—taking place on Saturday December 14 — will again feature snow!
What past or current River Authority project are you most proud of?
I am proud of the Hendrick Arnold Nature Park that opened last year in my district. The park offers acres of riparian woodland near the Medina River with several trails available for parkgoers to explore. There are plans to develop additional nature-based recreational opportunities one day, including a launch site for paddling the Medina River. The park is meaningful to me because not only do we have the chance to protect green space, but the preservation of the park provides a community space for the Southside. I am proud to support bringing projects and nature-based opportunities like Hendrick Arnold Nature Park to my district.
Hendrick Arnold Nature Park
