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SAN ANTONIO (AP) -- The lead expert in the development of a long-term master plan for the Alamo says a first-rate overhaul will require years of study and fundraising.

The San Antonio Express-News reports that George Skarmeas of Preservation Design Partnership of Philadelphia says a careful examination of the area, through documentation and archaeological work, will guide the project. He says construction could start in 2021 with a "soft opening" possible in 2024.

On Wednesday he told City Council Members: "We need to understand what is under our feet."

A team of experts will begin a "systematic archaeological study" of the area next week to pinpoint the location of exterior portions of the 1836 battle compound that was defended during a 13-day siege.

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