SAN ANTONIO, Texas

Taxpayers might end up paying millions to rename streets in the city that bear the name of Cesar Chavez, a prominent leader of the United Farm Workers (UFW), especially after allegations of sexual misconduct came to light in March. In San Antonio, it’s estimated that the renaming could set the city back around $200,000.

The San Antonio Conservation Society is looking into whether Cesar Chavez Boulevard should revert to its original name, Durango Boulevard. If they go ahead with the change, it would mean removing significant interstate signs as well as smaller street signs, which would drive up costs even more. There’s also the matter of re-routing the local 911 system, which impacts every home and business on that stretch of road.

Aside from the direct costs to taxpayers, individuals and business owners would face the burden of updating their identification documents, mailing addresses, and advertising materials.

In Fresno, California, a recent report indicated that the City Council voted unanimously to start the process of renaming Cesar Chavez Boulevard as of late March. Initially, the cost to honor Chavez was pegged at $150,000, but with some road signs already saved, there’s hope to cut back on expenses.

Meanwhile, in San Francisco, estimates suggest that updating the sidewalks along 37 blocks of Cesar Chavez Boulevard could cost taxpayers around $66,000. A previous rebranding effort back in 1995 left the city with a significant financial burden, with a $900,000 bill from the California Department of Transportation for renaming Amy Street—a cost that could be even higher now due to inflation.

Other major cities considering similar renaming efforts include Portland, Houston, Austin, Salt Lake City, and Albuquerque.

The drive to rename these streets follows claims from fellow labor activist Dolores Huerta, who alleged she was sexually assaulted twice by the late UFW leader. Huerta, who is approaching her 96th birthday, has a personal connection to Chavez, having dated his brother Richard, who passed away in 2011.

Reports feature testimonies from two women who allege they were abused by Chavez during their childhoods, revealing incidents that occurred between 1972 and 1977. These women had not previously shared their stories. Interviews conducted by a major publication explored Chavez’s behavior, finding additional allegations from other women as well. Huerta mentioned confiding in Chavez about having two children after her alleged assaults.

Chavez, who was once lauded for advocating for better wages for farm workers, has seen his legacy come under scrutiny. His rigid views on immigration, including his stance during the 1970s when he created a private patrol to deter undocumented immigrants from crossing picket lines, have alienated some supporters. Notably, there was coverage of Chavez’s complicated relationship with immigration on ABC News back in 2013.