Gilley International Group Outlines South San Antonio Development Strategy Focused on Workforce Housing

Developer Gilley Mendoza, founder of Gilley International Group, recently detailed his company's strategy for developing the South Side of San Antonio during an appearance on The Building Texas Show. The episode highlighted how Mendoza's first-generation perspective and deep community roots are shaping a development philosophy focused on long-term generational opportunity rather than short-term profit.

Mendoza identified the corridor between Loop 410 and Loop 1604 as one of Texas' most promising growth regions, contrasting it with the fully developed North San Antonio. "For the next 20 years, there is room for growth for everybody," Mendoza noted during the interview. This southern arc remains largely greenfield territory with significant institutional momentum driving its potential.

Several major anchors are fueling South Side development according to Mendoza's analysis. Palo Alto College sits directly across from his flagship development, while Texas A&M University–San Antonio has become one of Texas' fastest-growing universities with a 700-acre master plan. Additionally, expanding advanced manufacturing operations from companies like Toyota and JCB are creating substantial employment opportunities. These factors collectively position the South Side as Texas' next major workforce, education, and housing cluster.

The company's current focus is Villaret Commons, an 80-unit mixed residential community designed specifically for first-generation homeowners, students, and the region's expanding workforce. Located directly across from Palo Alto College, the project will feature 19 duplexes (38 doors) and 42 single-family homes. Horizontal development including roads, utilities, and modern infrastructure is scheduled for completion within the next 45 days, positioning Villaret Commons as one of South San Antonio's most accessible and strategically located new communities.

Mendoza emphasized his company's commitment to "approachable housing" rather than traditional affordable housing models. "I didn't say it was 'affordable' housing," Mendoza explained. "But we are intentionally building homes in the $250,000 to $300,000 range because that's where the community's workforce is. That's the opportunity." This pricing strategy directly addresses the salary ranges of South Side manufacturing and trade jobs while maintaining quality construction standards.

The developer openly discussed both challenges and opportunities of building in neighborhoods where he grew up. While some residents express skepticism toward developers, Mendoza believes transparency and community engagement are essential components of responsible development. "You can't make everyone happy," he acknowledged. "But most people on the South Side want better retail, better housing, better options. 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 during the episode, stating: "This is 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." This endorsement highlights how Mendoza's community-driven model differs from large institutional builders moving into sensitive neighborhoods without local connections or understanding.

The development strategy outlined by Gilley International Group represents a significant shift in how growth corridors are developed in Texas. By aligning housing prices with actual workforce earnings, focusing on infrastructure that supports educational institutions, and maintaining transparent community relationships, the company is creating a replicable model for responsible urban expansion. As South San Antonio continues its transformation from greenfield to developed corridor, this approach could influence how other Texas communities balance growth with community preservation and workforce sustainability.