City Public Service Company Building
historic place
The City Public Service Company Building, located in San Antonio, Bexar County, is recognized as a historic place. This structure was initially built in 1921 as a three-story building. Architect Atlee B. Ayres was responsible for its original design. As the city's utility needs grew, the building was expanded in 1927 to six stories. Atlee B. Ayres collaborated with his son, Robert M. Ayres, on this significant addition. For years, this building served as a central hub for the San Antonio Public Service Company. A major shift occurred in 1942 when the City of San Antonio municipal government acquired the San Antonio Public Service Company for $34 million. This acquisition established the entity known as City Public Service, which later became CPS Energy. The utility company eventually outgrew this facility in the mid-1950s. Following its time as the utility headquarters, the building was sold and repurposed for commercial offices, becoming known as the Petroleum Commerce Building. This site reflects a key period in the evolution of San Antonio's public utility services.