Tommy Calvert

County Commissioner, Precinct 4

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

The ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Greenies Urban Farm 1615 Sherman St., San Antonio, TX 78202 (Outdoor Classroom Pavilion).

Architect Debra Dockery’s rendering of the new administrative building at the Greenies Urban Farm

San Antonio, TX — On September 12, 2024, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert, in collaboration with local partners, will host a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of Phase III of the Greenies Urban Farm. This phase includes the construction of a new administration building that will serve as a hub for community education and health programs.

Located in a nationally designated food desert on the Eastside of San Antonio, Greenies Urban Farm is a vital community resource dedicated to reducing food insecurity and promoting healthy living. Since its inception, the farm has provided over 25,000 pounds of fresh produce to residents in need and has been recognized with a National Association of Counties “Achievement Award” and a Texas A&M “Superior Service” award.

“The Greenies Urban Farm is more than just a farm; it is a beacon of hope and a crucial tool in our fight against food insecurity,” said Commissioner Tommy Calvert. “The new building will provide a space for educational programs that will empower our community with knowledge on sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and health.”

The ceremony will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Greenies Urban Farm, 1615 Sherman St., San Antonio, TX 78202. The event will feature remarks from Commissioner Calvert, local officials, and project partners, including representatives from Bexar County Facilities Management, Bexar County Agri-Life Extension Service, and Nunnelly Construction, as well as architect Debra Dockery. Attendees will also enjoy a special performance by the Young Men’s Leadership Academy Marching Band.

The new 17,000-square-foot building will offer programs ranging from agriculture and community health to youth development through 4H. This expansion is a significant step in continuing the farm’s mission to provide fresh, affordable food and education to the community.

Members of the media and the public are invited to attend and learn more about the positive impact of this initiative on the Eastside community. Please RSVP to jonathon.holler@bexar.org.

Run of Show

9:01 a.m. – 9:03 – National Anthem – Young Men’s Leadership Academy Band

9:03 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. Invocation – Rev. Butch Seward, Revelation Christian Church

9:05 a.m. – 9:12 a.m. Welcome – Bexar County Commissioner, Tommy Calvert, Precinct 4

9:12 a.m. – 9:17 a.m. – Nelda Speller, Bexar County Extension Director

9:22 a.m. – 9:27 am – Bexar County Facilities Director Dan Curry

9:27 a.m. – 9:32 a.m. – Debra Dockery, Architect, PC

9:32 a.m. – 9:37 a.m. Blaine Beckman, Nunnelly Construction

9:37 a.m.– 9:50 a.m. Ceremonial Groundbreaking

9:37a.m. – 9:50 a.m. Young Men’s Leadership Academy Band Performance

About Greenies Urban Farm

Greenies Urban Farm is a pioneering community initiative focused on reducing food prices, using food as medicine, and generating revenue for Bexar County through the rental of an event space. The farm’s activities are aimed at supporting the long-term maintenance and sustainability of the project, providing critical resources and education to the community.

The farm has provided more than 25,000 pounds of super greens and fruits to the community.

Press Contact: Jonathon Holler, jonathon.holler@bexar.org, 210-609-9559