Another year has come and gone, and a new one beckons. We stand at the gates of 2016, looking on and wondering what the new year has in store for us. As we take advantage of the proverbial reset button and look inward to reinvigorate and tackle personal growth, we also look outward for things to excite us. New residential options, grass-roots initiatives, and the Pope are a few of the things waiting for us this year! Below is a list of 9 things to look forward to in Downtown El Paso (DTEP) in 2016!
The Martin Lofts “ElectriCity” – In the Office District of DTEP, the 98-year-old Martin building on 215 N. Stanton Street is the new home of the 40-unit apartment project dubbed ElectriCity. The creative name, edgy graphic images of the ElectriCity sign, and exciting repurposing of the Martin building have resulted in a waiting list for the contemporary designed units. For more information visit ElectriCity
The International – A bar and kitchen as described by Alejandro Borunda, with partners, Jaime Vasquez, and Patrick McNeil of the upcoming night spot. The 67-year-old building has been a challenge for the trio to bring up to code, but it is nearly ready to open to the public. The owners invested a large portion of their savings and are recipients of a Façade Improvement Grant by the city that is managed by the Downtown Management District to help in refreshing the exterior. The owners have transformed this space into a prohibition inspired bar replete with a rooftop patio that will provide a generous view of San Jacinto Plaza from the south-side. The International is located in the Las Plazas Arts District at 114-A Mills Ave.
Ciclo Market – Though this is located a little ways outside of the traditional downtown boundary but we are looking forward to the results of the forward thinking community-based grocery store that would give area residents an opportunity to buy local, organic and Fair Trade products. The mission of Ciclo Market is to make health living easy, affordable, and accessible for every American family including those in the El Segundo Barrio. The market is located on 609 Tays St. at the Houchen Community Center. For more information visit Ciclo Market
Hotel Indigo – Leading the charge for boutique hotels in El Paso is the Hotel Indigo, an international hotel brand that prides itself for capturing the unique local flavor in each of its locations and combining that essence with contemporary design and sterling service. Located at 325 N. Kansas St. in the Office District, the hotel will boast no two rooms are alike. A rooftop pool, new restaurant the Downtowner, and a bar called Circa 1964 are among the attractions in the hotel. Look for Hotel Indigo to accept reservations after February of this year.
Boutique Hotel – While we’re on the subject of boutique hotels, we look forward to this one, located at 209 N. Stanton in the Office District, next to the Martin Lofts. Formerly the Rogers Furniture Building, the project is expected to have 43 room occupancy and dedicated parking. Recipients of a Façade Improvement Grant from the city which is managed by the Downtown Management District, the hotel is expected to open its doors in late 2016.
The Pope – Over a million people are expected to travel to El Paso in preparation for Pope Francis’ visit to Juarez. His first scheduled visit to Mexico will include visiting inmates, business leaders and lead a mass at the Chamizal Park in Juarez. Downtown is expected to be at occupancy, as the Chamizal Park in Juarez, where the mass will take place, sits across the Border Highway – that section of highway will likely be closed.
(AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)
Later, later – A mysterious new bar close to the ballpark has successfully flown under our radar. The bar is called Later later, and has been converted from an old house into this great rustic, industrial space. Stay tuned for more news on this new business in the coming weeks.
Savoy Loft Apartments – Another recipient of the Façade Improvement Grant from the DMD, the Savoy Loft Apartments are expected to have 27 studio apartments in the upper floors with retail on the ground floor, proving that creative use of spaces in Downtown can conjure unique living opportunities. Apartments are expected to range from 550 square feet to 820 square feet. Located at 116 S. Stanton, be on the lookout for this new living option in the coming months.
San Jacinto Plaza – This is the year, we can feel it in our hearts. Can’t you?
