Future of South San Antonio: Gilley Mendoza on Workforce Housing, Development, and Villaret Commons

Developer Gilley Mendoza, founder of Gilley International, joins The Building Texas Show to discuss how intentional, community-driven development is reshaping the future of South San Antonio. From the rapid growth around Palo Alto College and Texas A&M University–San Antonio, to the expansion of Toyota, JCB, and other advanced manufacturing employers, the South Side is becoming one of Texas’ most important economic corridors.

In this episode, Gilley breaks down his development strategy, including his new 80-unit Villaret Commons project positioned directly across from Palo Alto College. He explains why “approachable housing,” workforce alignment, school quality, and smart infrastructure matter more than ever as Texas absorbs massive population growth.

If you want to understand San Antonio real estate trends, the future of South Side development, or the emerging Texas Triangle economy, this is a must-watch discussion.

Learn more:
Villaret Commons – https://villaretcommons.com
The Building Texas Show – https://buildingtexasshow.com

00:00 Introduction
00:17 Meet Developer Gilley Mendoza
00:35 How Real Estate Became a Career Path
01:40 First Development Deal and Lessons Learned
02:55 Why the South Side Is the Future of San Antonio Growth
04:22 The Impact of Palo Alto College and Texas A&M–San Antonio
05:42 Water, Infrastructure, and Development Challenges
07:25 Inside the 80-Unit Villaret Commons Project
08:32 Growing Gilley International into a Multi-Generational Brand
10:35 Community Feedback and Responsible Development
12:45 Housing Market Trends, Interest Rates, and Builder Strategy
14:47 The Coming Housing Shortage and Workforce Needs
15:57 How Workforce Data Shapes Site Selection
18:19 The Texas Triangle and Secondary Market Opportunities
19:01 Why Approachable Housing Matters in Texas Growth
20:47 Schools, Workforce Retention, and Long-Term Community Strength
23:07 Overcoming Barriers and Re-Earning Community Trust
23:59 Closing Thoughts