My River POV: Sandy West, Human Resources Director

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Last Updated on January 30, 2024

Growing up in Southeast Louisiana, I regularly enjoyed freshwater fishing, casting many lines in the lakes, rivers, and bayous near my home. I recall fond memories of my family catching, cleaning, and cooking white perch, my favorite fish, on the banks of the rivers. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I discovered fishing also had a therapeutic effect. It kept me in the moment — a rare but enjoyable state for me. After an hour or two spent waiting for a bite and failing to set the hook, I realized that I had not thought about anything else for a while.

Sandy West Portrait

Sandy West, SHMR-SPC, Human Resources Director

Growing up in Southeast Louisiana, I regularly enjoyed freshwater fishing, casting many lines in the lakes, rivers, and bayous near my home. I recall fond memories of my family catching, cleaning, and cooking white perch, my favorite fish, on the banks of the rivers. It wasn’t until I was an adult that I discovered fishing also had a therapeutic effect. It kept me in the moment — a rare but enjoyable state for me. After an hour or two spent waiting for a bite and failing to set the hook, I realized that I had not thought about anything else for a while.

A woman prepares her fishing rod

When I accepted the job of Human Resources Director at the River Authority, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my office and my new apartment afforded me a view of the San Antonio River, and I could take daily walks with my puppy, Deuce, along the San Antonio River Walk. Exchanging a 60-minute commute for a less than 10-minute commute was an added perk. I have grown accustomed to not spending 8.5 hours in my car weekly. Instead, I have more time to enjoy beautiful art along the San Antonio River, such as the F.I.S.H art installation and the Grotto, or visit Confluence Park and the Pearl Brewery.

HR Director Sandy West poses with her puppy

In support of the River Authority’s commitment to providing safe, clean, and enjoyable creeks and rivers, I get to lead a group of human resources professionals who support the total operation in meeting goals through its most valuable resource – PEOPLE. The Human Resources Department acts as a catalyst to enable all River Authority employees to participate at optimum levels toward the success of the agency and, ultimately, healthy and sustainable creeks and rivers for the community of the San Antonio River Basin to enjoy.

The Human Resources Department’s mission is to provide the following quality services to the employees of the River Authority:

  • Recruitment of competent individuals
  • Retention of respected employees
  • Training and development to foster individual success and increase overall value to the organization
  • A safe and healthful working environment
  • Motivation and encouragement for high employee morale through recognition, effective communication, and continuous feedback
  • Resources for administering benefits, policies, and procedures
HR Team during disc golf tournament

The Human Resources team plays disc golf at the River Authority’s employee Fall Fun Festival.

We achieve our mission through teamwork inspired by proactive efforts, effective organizational skills, and a balance between professionalism and the ability to have fun! I am proud to be on a team of passionate individuals at the River Authority working together for a worthy cause.

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Alerts

Park Closure Notice: Trueheart Ranch

Unfortunately, Trueheart Ranch Nature Park (14984 Blue Wing Rd, San Antonio, TX 78221) is closed until further notice due to recent vandalism. We’re working to assess and repair the damage to ensure the park is safe and welcoming for everyone. Thank you for your understanding—updates will be shared as soon as we have them.

Trail Closure – San Pedro Creek Culture Park

* Trail temporarily closed from 5/1/2025 until 9/1/2025.

Due to adjacent construction work, the San Pedro Creek Trail on the west side of the creek will be closed from the access
point at W. Nueva Street to Dolorosa Street until further notice. Alternate route with ADA access is on the east side of the creekSan Pedro Creek Culture Park Trail Closure

Trail Closure: Museum Reach at Pearl

* Trail temporarily closed from 2/3/2025 until 5/16/2025.
* For southbound pedestrian traffic, please exit the river and utilize the Hotel Emma bridge to gain access to the east side river trail. Access to the east side river trail via the elevator or stairs.
* For northbound pedestrian traffic, please exit the river trail at the south bridge to gain access to the east side river trail. Continue north through Pearl towards Hotel Emma. The west & east side river trail accessible via the Hotel Emma bridge.

North Bridge West Landing & Stairs Trail Closure Map

 

Graytown Park Parking Lot Construction Notice 

Construction Timeline: April – October 2024 (estimated)

Improvements are coming to Graytown Park! Parking lot construction will begin in April, and we appreciate your patience as we work to enhance the park for all visitors.

Temporary Closures & Impacts:

  • Upper parking area, pavilion, and restrooms will be CLOSED during construction. Temporary restroom facilities will be provided.
  • Park and river access will be CLOSED Monday–Friday from 8 AM – 5 PM (no access during these hours).

We encourage visitors to plan accordingly and check back for updates as the project progresses. Thank you for your support!

Stay Updated: Follow us on social media for the latest updates.

Goliad Paddling Trail Alert

NOTICE: HWY 59 Landing Site Closed

Due to TxDOT construction on the HWY 59 Bridge, the HWY 59 landing site is closed until further notice. However, the Goliad Paddling Trail remains open, and paddlers can still access the river at the Riverdale, Ferry Street, and Goliad State Park landings.

Please plan accordingly and check back for updates.

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail Temporarily Closed

Staff have removed two large log jams just downstream of Helton Nature Park, keeping the southern portion of the SASPAMCO Paddling Trail temporarily closed. Staff are working to contact adjacent landowners to support a land-based removal solution.

SASPAMCO Paddling Trail

The SASPAMCO paddling trail is open from River Crossing Park to Helton Nature Park.
*Please Note: Paddling Trail from Helton Nature Park to HWY 97 is still closed due to blockages. 

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