Tomorrow, San Antonio’s City Council will review a proposal to phase out the city’s beloved but controversial horse-drawn carriages. While this session won’t include a vote, it’s the first time council members will be formally briefed on a detailed plan for a gradual transition away from horse-powered rides, replacing them with electric alternatives within one to three years.

The push for the phase-out began in July, with a citywide survey that collected over 50,000 responses. Just over half (52%) favored the transition, citing concerns over animal welfare, downtown congestion, and safety. Councilmembers Jalen McKee-Rodriguez and Phyllis Viagran have championed the proposal, envisioning electric carriages that would still offer the charm of a carriage ride without involving live horses. They argue that the change respects downtown’s character while ensuring humane treatment for the animals.

Carriage owners, however, claim that current regulations are enough to protect their horses, and they warn that the proposed transition would harm their businesses. Stephanie Garcia, owner of Yellow Rose and H.R.H. Carriage Companies, says a three-year phase-out would be financially devastating.

As a compromise, city staff have developed transition options for affected carriage operators, including training for electric carriage operations, loans for new business startups, and support through the city’s Ready to Work program. Tomorrow’s briefing will provide council members a chance to weigh these options and gather feedback before any final decisions are made.