San Antonio-based Gilley International Group, founded by developer Gilley Mendoza, is reshaping the South Side's future through strategic, community-aligned real estate projects. In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, Mendoza detailed his vision for the region, emphasizing approachable housing and long-term generational opportunity. The episode, hosted by Texas business leader Justin McKenzie, highlighted Mendoza's journey from college student to land developer and his commitment to reinvesting in his own community.
Mendoza identified the corridor between Loop 410 and Loop 1604 as one of Texas' most promising growth regions, noting that while North San Antonio is fully developed, the southern arc remains largely greenfield. "For the next 20 years, there is room for growth for everybody," he said. The area's momentum is fueled by major anchors such as Palo Alto College, Texas A&M University–San Antonio—now one of Texas' fastest-growing universities with a 700-acre master plan—and expanding advanced manufacturing from Toyota, JCB, and other employers. These factors position the South Side as a future workforce, education, and housing hub.
During the episode, Mendoza unveiled new details about Villaret Commons, an 80-unit mixed residential community directly across from Palo Alto College. The project includes 19 duplexes (38 doors) and 42 single-family homes, with horizontal construction scheduled for completion in 45 days. Mendoza emphasized "approachable housing" priced between $250,000 and $300,000, aligning with the salaries of local manufacturing and trade workers. "I didn't say it was 'affordable' housing," he explained. "But we are intentionally building homes in that range because that's where the community's workforce is. That's the opportunity."
Mendoza addressed the challenges of building in his hometown, where some residents express skepticism toward developers. He stressed the importance of transparency and engagement. "You can't make everyone happy," he said. "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, calling it "the best kind of development—local investors reinvesting in their own community with intention, long-term thinking, and respect for San Antonio's heritage."
