Gilley International Group, led by founder Gilley Mendoza, is making waves in South San Antonio with a development strategy focused on community-aligned housing and long-term growth. In a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, hosted by Justin McKenzie, Mendoza shared insights into his journey from college student to land developer and his vision for transforming the South Side corridor between Loop 410 and Loop 1604.
Mendoza, a first-generation developer with deep roots in the area, emphasized that his goal is to build generational opportunity starting within his own community. "I've always envisioned building a brand that could go international," Mendoza said. "But it starts here, with my own community." The region's momentum is fueled by major institutional anchors, including Palo Alto College, Texas A&M University–San Antonio, and expanding employers like Toyota and JCB, positioning 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 located directly across from Palo Alto College. The project will feature 19 duplexes and 42 single-family homes, with horizontal construction scheduled for completion in the next 45 days. This development aims to provide "approachable housing" priced between $250,000 and $300,000, targeting the salaries of South Side manufacturing and trade workers without compromising quality.
Mendoza addressed the challenges of building in his own neighborhood, acknowledging skepticism from some residents but stressing 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 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's focus on responsible growth aligns with the region's expanding industrial corridors and educational institutions, making it a key player in shaping the future of South San Antonio. The full episode is available for viewing at https://youtu.be/TWo74ePiNSQ.
