San Jacinto Plaza opens after years of work

Families from all across the borderland gathered downtown Saturday for the grand reopening of San Jacinto Plaza, which had been under renovation since spring 2013. Families were walking around the renovated park with children running and playing. It was a welcome relief to a downtown-sized headache.

El Paso mayor Oscar Leeser made note of the delays that pushed back the plaza’s opening, which was originally slated for winter 2014.

“We do owe you an apology for being late. We were late, it wasn’t done in the timely manner that we would have wished it done”

Everyone ABC-7 spoke with, however, said no apology was needed.

“Things happen, but it’s a really nice plaza, so we’re glad that it opened up,” said Jazqueline Arteaga.

While not everyone was on board with the renovation from the beginning, for many those feelings didn’t last.

“I was a little upset when I heard they were going to renovate it, cuz I thought it was fine the way it was and I didn’t want them to get rid of the historical value, but after coming out and seeing it today I definitely love it. I think I’ll be coming out here more often with my friends and family,” said Brittany Huerta.

When the time came, many El Pasoans were making up for the three years they couldn’t enjoy the plaza.

“This is the park for the community and we’re excited to be here today,” said Leeser.

“It was absolutely worth it. This is beautiful, and along with the ballpark and everything else that’s happening downtown this is fabulous,” said Rosalyn Thorne, who has lived in El Paso for more than 30 years.