SAN ANTONIO — The much-anticipated Confluence Park will be unveiled next week. 

The official unveiling will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 17. 

"It truly is a gateway to the Mission Reach and it's important to have something like this down here on the Southside," said Confluence Park director Frates Seeligson.

What was once a fenced-in industrial yard closed off to the public, will soon be fully transformed into a place for learning.

Confluence Park will span 3 acres and will inspire green practices through its design and architecture.

The goal is for students and community members to visit and learn about water conversation, renewable energy and native habitats.

Funds were raised back in 2007 to purchase the land and for the past four years the $13 million park has been transforming on the Southside.

"At the end of the day remember that this isn't just a park still. Come enjoy it. Bring your families, come outside, reconnect with nature, reconnect with your river, be inspired. That's what we hope," Seeligson said.