New Mall Opens On Fort Bliss

Just in time for the holidays, there’s a brand new mall in the El Paso area.

Soldiers were given the day off to take their families and enjoy their day at Freedom Crossing at Fort Bliss.

Thousands showed up to the grand opening of Freedom Crossing, a first of its kind retail center on post.

“I like that we have so many choices now for food, said Belinda Lopez. Lopez says she also likes there’s something for everyone in her family…with plenty of child’s play and entertainment areas.

Shoppers aren’t the only ones excited about the new open air mall.

Business owners like Paul DeJoria, founder of Patron tequila and Paul Mitchell hair care said this is a prime location.

“The Paul Mitchell Salon had a long line waiting to get in this morning when we officially opened it up,” he said.

“Cost is about 100 million dollars to put in, plus or minus and we expect great return from them,” said Army & Air Force Exchange Service Commanding General Maj. Gen. Bruce Casella.

And so does the city.

With a possible return in taxes of about $ 300,000 from all business not affiliated with the government such as the Post Exchange…it could mean some much needed financial support for the city of El Paso.

With all new restaurants, coffee shops, and even a 10-screen movie theatre, city leaders say that’s a lot of sales tax money they’re determined to keep here.

But because Ft. Bliss isn’t in city limits…annexation is being considered by city leaders.

But first, they’ve asked the state will change tax codes and allow the city not just the county to collect the additional revenue.

“Knowing we’re in a budget crisis in the state, it’s something we’re saying if other taxing entities are getting their portion of the Freedom Crossing of their taxes then is there even a possibility that the city can get their portion as well,” said City Representative, Rachel Quintana.

City leaders say it’s now up to the state to buy into their proposal.

Ft. Bliss officials say Freedom Crossing is the first of three being built across the country.

The others are planned for San Antonio and Washington state.

The civilian public can visit the Grand Theatre as well as restaurants but can’t shop at retail stores. For a pass to get on to the post, visit www.bliss.army.mil and click on the “Newcomers” tab and clicking on “E-pass” under the “Welcome” sub-menu.

Related Link:Freedom Crossing Directory