FirstLight announces $250K gift for ‘Veterans Walk’ at proposed downtown deck plaza

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- In honor of local veterans, FirstLight Federal Credit Union announced a $250,000 gift for the "Veterans Walk" at the proposed Fred Loya Family Deck Plaza on Monday.

The Downtown Deck Plaza Foundation said the Veterans Walk will offer a "space for reflection and remembrance while ensuring future generations never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who served."

The foundation and FirstLight will seek input from veterans and the community to shape the Veterans Walk at the proposed deck plaza.

“As the Veterans Capital of the U.S.A., we know the stories and sacrifices of our veterans are an important part of that history. The Veterans Walk will be a fitting way to honor their service. On behalf of El Paso County, thank you to FirstLight Federal Credit Union for this gift to our veterans,” said El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego in a statement.

According to the foundation, FirstLight was founded in 1955 to serve military and civilian personnel at Biggs Air Force Base. Now, the credit union serves soldiers and families at Fort Bliss.

"Veterans are very important part of FirstLight. This gives us an opportunity to honor military families and the sacrifices that they made for our community," said FirstLight CEO Margie Salazar.

The Downtown Deck Plaza Foundation estimates it will cost a total of $239 million to build the proposed deck plaza. Previous reporting by ABC-7 found that building out all the amenities and adjacent buildings could cost $412 million in total.

The Downtown Deck Plaza Foundation said it committed to raising $35 million in private philanthropy. CASA Auto Group, the Loya Family and the Woody and Gayle Hunt Family Foundation have already made their marks. Additionally, the Downtown Deck Plaza said it will take over the park's long-term operations and maintenance.