San Antonio’s west side natatorium has been renamed in honor of Atanacio Garcia, who fought for nearly two decades to establish the facility.
SAN ANTONIO — A veteran’s fight for a pool on the west side is still making waves. The San Antonio Natatorium has officially been renamed the Atanacio Garcia Natatorium. The late community advocate spent nearly two decades fighting to bring the indoor Olympic-sized pool to the heart of the west side.
The family said Garcia’s efforts began in the late 1960s, rallying support from neighbors, gathering petition signatures and appealing to city leaders and members of Congress.
His daughter Rose Garcia said her father was a compassionate and loving man that was determined.
“He was told ‘no’ a lot of times, but he didn’t give up,” Rose said. “It was his dream to have this natatorium.”
Thanks to Garcia’s dedication and the help of community organizations like COPS/Metro, the facility finally opened in 1981.
“None of that would be possible without the work of Mr. Garcia,” District 5 City Councilwoman Teri Castillo, said. “We need to remember those that have helped bring these facilities to our community, because it took work.”
The natatorium has been a safe and welcoming space for generations of children and families.
“This isn’t just a name on a building,” Rose said. “It’s a symbol of what drive and determination can achieve.”
A formal dedication ceremony is happening on Saturday. Rose said the family hopes to display some of her father’s letters and memorabilia inside the facility so people can learn about his legacy.
“We are very proud and so grateful to God,” his daughter said. “It is such a blessing. What an honor.”