plan in works to upgrade el paso's famous mission trail area

Up to 110,000 square feet of new restaurants, specialty stores, and small grocery store space may eventually see construction in the historic Mission Trail area south of El Paso.

New sidewalks, building facades, and upgraded streets will almost certainly be a part of an effort to upgrade the area, with an eye towards attracting more tourists to the cities and communities of Ysleta, Socorro, and San Elizario.

Although no precise numbers are available, the Mission Trail area has for years proven itself a tourist attraction because of the historic Spanish missions located there.

According to county documents the strategic plan, which has already been the subject of public input during the last year, could also include the rehabilitation and restoration of existing historical structures.

The strategic vision plan, officially called the Mission Trail Comprehensive Master Plan, is currently being reviewed by the El Paso County Commissioners Court.

Besides the churches of Ysleta and Socorro, the Mission Trail also includes the presidio chapel of San Elizario, completed in 1882.

The churches and chapels, located along a 9-mile stretch, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Mission Trail itself has been certified by the National Parks Service as part of the National Trails System.

By Garry Boulard

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