A Full Circle Moment for JR RAMON Demolition

1967 Hemisfair Demolition and Site Preparation

Demolition of the ITC building

Nearly six decades after helping clear the way for Hemisfair, JR RAMON Demolition has returned to the site—this time leading the structural demolition of the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) in San Antonio, Texas.  Since the project began, it has sparked debate between city officials and residents regarding whether the building’s demolition should move forward. This demolition project marks one of the first steps towards Project Marvel, a ground-breaking development for the San Antonio community that will enrich the downtown area with multiple event venues, hotels, and other attractions. As a subcontractor, JR RAMON remains committed to balancing community concerns with the responsibility of advancing development.

For the company, this project represents a full-circle moment. JR RAMON began in 1945 as an asphalt and paving business. In 1968, after being awarded a demolition contract that helped clear the way for Hemisfair in San Antonio, the company incorporated under JR RAMON & SONS, INC. and shifted its focus towards the demolition industry.  Today, the Institute project not only highlights the company’s growth and evolution in the demolition industry over the decades but also underscores its long-standing role in shaping the city’s landscape.

President of JR RAMON Demolition Timothy Ramon said, “I do not believe our founders, Joe Ramon Sr. (deceased) and his son, Joe Ramon Jr. (retired), could have ever fathomed the contribution our company has made to San Antonio since their inaugural demolition contract decades ago.  We are proud to be part of another milestone development for our community.”

The ITC project focuses on bringing down the remaining structure with safety and efficiency leading every step. Each day, multiple trucks haul out hundreds of tons of concrete while high-reach equipment takes down the larger structural sections. The scope includes the full demolition of the building and site improvements. 

For JR RAMON crew member Arshad Shareef, the work is about more than demolition. “It’s about transforming a landmark space and making way for what’s next,” he said. As the final walls come down, JR RAMON isn’t just closing a chapter—it’s helping write the city’s next one.