‘Freedom Crossing Mall’ Set For Fort Bliss
by ABC-7 Reporter/Anchor Celina Avila
FORT BLISS, Texas — Around this time next year, construction crews will be putting the finishing touches on a new mall at Fort Bliss. The groundbreaking for the project is Friday.
By now, El Pasoans have heard about the major growth expected at Fort Bliss. By 2012, an estimated 127,000 Fort Bliss soldiers and their families will have what is described as an “outdoor lifestyle center” to enjoy all to themselves.
The demolition is in progress, piles of dirt are being moved, plans have been drawn and videos have been made, and Fort Bliss families can’t wait for the first shopping mall in the country on military property.
“This project will give the opportunity for regional, national and local retailers to operate their business on a military installation,” said Robert Hall, project manager for Service Star Development.
By fall of 2010, Fort Bliss will have a $100 million mall that will include stores, restaurants and even a 10-screen movie theater.
“It’s a fantastic facility. It’s going to do a lot to enhance the Fort Bliss community,” Hall said.
Developers say “Freedom Crossing” will be a great hangout on post. “It will be an open air environment where patrons can walk from retail facility to retail facility while enjoying the outdoors.”
Fort Bliss won’t be the only ones benefiting from the project that will be about half the size of Sunland Park Mall.
While only soldiers and their families will be able to shop at the mall, developers say the mall will generate about $5.5 million in sales tax revenue annually for the city and will create about 800 new jobs for both military and civilians.
The mall will also offer more to those who live on post. “There’s a lot for children to do, but not so much for single soldiers,” said one soldier.
Developers agree it’s an exciting time for the Fort Bliss community. “To bring this project for our troops, they certainly deserve it,” Hall said.
The public is invited to a groundbreaking ceremony planned for Friday at 11 a.m. near the PX at Fort Bliss.
