Gilley International Group founder Gilley Mendoza appeared on The Building Texas Show to outline his ambitious development strategy for South San Antonio, emphasizing community-driven projects that address housing needs for the local workforce. Mendoza, a first-generation developer with roots in the area, shared his vision for long-term generational opportunity, starting with 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 region's momentum is fueled by major anchors including Palo Alto College, Texas A&M University–San Antonio, and expanding advanced manufacturing from employers like Toyota and JCB.
During the episode, Mendoza unveiled new details about Villaret Commons, an 80-unit mixed residential community directly across from Palo Alto College. The project features 19 duplexes and 42 single-family homes, with horizontal construction scheduled for completion in the next 45 days. Mendoza stressed the importance of "approachable housing"—homes priced between $250,000 and $300,000 to match the salaries of South Side manufacturing and trade jobs without compromising quality. "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 discussed both the challenges and opportunities of building in the neighborhoods where he grew up, emphasizing 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 commitment, calling it "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."
Gilley International Group is a San Antonio–based real estate development firm focused on land development and community-aligned housing. The full episode of The Building Texas Show featuring Mendoza can be viewed at https://youtu.be/TWo74ePiNSQ.
