ONLY ON ABC-7: El Paso Streetcar project expected to boost tourism, generate revenue

The El Paso Streetcar project is expected to boost tourism and generate revenue.

The streetcars are undergoing restoration but will arrive in El Paso in January.

“When the streetcar project was coming through, basically for two years, it was a huge mess,” business owner and resident Hal Marcus said.

Marcus tells ABC-7 it’s been a long-awaited project for business owners and residents who live along the streetcar route on Oregon Street, adding construction was tough, but anticipates a boost once the streetcars are up and running.

“We’re hoping that we have people that want to see a part of El Paso cultural and we’ll be in the middle of it,” Marcus said.

Another business along the route is Savage Goods, a bakery set to open in a few days. The owner tells ABC-7 the streetcar will make it easier for future customers to visit them.

“You gotta have a great product, and we’re excited that we do and location after that is just how people get to you,” Tyler Savage said.

It’s expected to be more than a transit program, the streetcars are also anticipated to help with branding and tourism.

“I think it’s going to be like the star on the mountain, and kind of like the streetcar, and of course Juarez, so I think it’s going to help us with your identity with a sense of who we are,” Marcus said.

City Representative Peter Svarzbein in a recent El Paso Times op-ed said the 4.8 mile streetcar route has the potential to be like El Paso’s own River Walk.

“Simply put, when someone visits San Antonio and is looking for something to do, they visit the River Walk. It has restaurants, historic sites, museums and shops. Now, visualize our streetcar route and all the different and unique places and experiences on its route. So, let’s hop on and make it our River Walk,” Svarzbein stated.

“I’ve seen millions of dollars in economic development come into the city,” Carl Jackson, Assistant Director of the Streetcar Operations said.

Jackson worked on streetcar projects in other major cities like Atlanta, Seattle and Kansas City where downtown areas were revitalized and empty lots turned into townhouses and condos. He tells ABC-7 he sees the same potential for El Paso too.

“I think it’ll be quite the economic engine for Downtown El Paso,” Jackson said.

The streetcars will undergo testing on the rail system for several months before they’re ready for service next year.