Liza “Lisa” Barratachea was born and raised in San Antonio. Before graduating from Texas A&M University in College Station, she attended St. Paul’s Catholic School and Providence High School.
She has more than 20 years of advocacy experience in public policy and public affairs, working on local, regional, state, and federal policy issues. She established three organizations, restructured two reputable institutions, and worked as an advisor or staff for elected officials at the municipal and state levels.
How has your first year on the River Authority Board gone?
The biggest takeaway from my first year as a board member is how vast the River Authority’s reach is and how specialized the work is. From maintenance downstream to utility services to education programs and even freshwater mussel reintroduction, the River Authority takes on big jobs with professionalism. It has been impressive to learn about the breadth of the agency’s work.
Liza, fellow board members, and GM Derek Boese show off their “mussels”!
What ongoing or future projects are you excited about?
There are two ongoing projects that I am excited about. The Westside Creeks Ecosystem Restoration project is important to me because I grew up on the Westside. I see how the Mission Reach has revolutionized the Southside and given the community a place to gather and recreate. I think the Westside will benefit tremendously from the restoration and change the face of what is there now. The other project that I am excited about is the Spirit Reach Contemplative Path. The Blue Hole is where the San Antonio River starts and I’m excited to provide the community with access up to the Headwaters. It is a beautiful stretch of the river.
Liza at the Pentagon for SA to DC 2024.
Describe one of your favorite memories related to the river, creeks, or trails.
I was an avid marathon runner when I lived in Austin, and when I moved back home to San Antonio, I was disappointed that we did not have similar stretches of running trails. However, San Antonio now has beautiful stretches of trails along the San Antonio River as well as along the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail System. I remember the first time I walked down the San Antonio River near the Guenther House. Not realizing the river extended beyond the River Walk, I was excited and enchanted to see that the river was a part of the community beyond the tourist section downtown. I love the river extension projects, the river’s connection into neighborhoods and that it is no longer a hidden gem. It is something for everyone to enjoy.
San Antonio River’s King William section.
Elections for the River Authority Board of Directors are held every two years. Head to our website for more information on San Antonio River Authority Board of Directors and Committees.
Share Your Story
What do you love about your waterway? Do you have fond memories of growing up, playing along one of the creeks? Do your family traditions include celebrating holidays or special events at a park near the water? Does your ideal day off work involve fishing, going for a walk or paddling the river? Whether you’re in Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, or Goliad counties, we want to hear how one of the waterways in the San Antonio River Basin has made a positive impact on your life. Head to the My River Way oral history project page to share your story today!
