Soon the Mission Reach will have a new gem.

Construction is due to start next week on Confluence Park, the San Antonio River Foundation's largest project yet.

But this won't be your average park. It will be more than a nice green space on the San Antonio River.

Not only is it educational, the park is practical.

Designed by Lake|Flato, Rialto Studios and Matsys, Confluence Park will feature the BHP Billiton Pavilion, constructed of formed concrete, designed to collect and deposit rainwater into an underground storage tank.

So, if Texas weather continues to change as quick as it does — bright sun turns to dark clouds on the horizon — visitors who find themselves relaxing under the pavilion during a storm can gain a better understanding of the water cycle and the San Antonio River watershed.

Named after its physical location — looking directly toward where the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek meet — Confluence Park will also feature five ecotypes that define Bexar County.

From Lake|Flato:

The Grassland ecotype is a central feature in the park around which the paths and other ecotypes are organized.

The San Antonio River Improvement Project ecotype demonstrates the species of plants used along the river as part of SARA’s ongoing restoration project.

The Trans Pecos/Chihuahua Desert ecotype demonstrates the use of west Texas plants that thrive in San Antonio. This ecotype spreads into the parking lot providing dapped shading for cars.

The Texas Oak Conservatory ecotype demonstrates the many types of oak trees that thrive in our region.

The Texas Love Oak Savannah provides shade around the edges of the pavilion and help to block unwanted winter winds from the pavilion space.

So, get excited. The Alamo City is offering yet another wonderful green space that not only educates and entertains, it has a functional purpose: saving water.

On Wednesday, at 9 a.m., the San Antonio River Foundation and a host of San Antonio and Bexar County dignitaries will hold a groundbreaking ceremony at 9 a.m. at 310 W. Mitchell.

There will be speakers and a celebratory mood to welcome another addition along the Mission Reach Ecosystem Restoration and Recreation Project on the South Side.