Completion of Major Mobility Improvements Brings New Opportunities for Residents, Businesses, Employees, and Visitors
EL PASO, Texas (June 2026) — The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso, in partnership with the Office of District 1 Representative Alejandra Chávez, Sun Metro, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), is celebrating a significant milestone for Northwest El Paso: the restoration of public transit service and improved roadway access that reconnects the Westside to the rest of the city.
Since June 14, Sun Metro is once again providing access to The Outlet Shoppes at El Paso through Route 12 under Sun Metro Rising, marking an important step in restoring mobility for residents, employees, visitors, and tourists traveling to the Northwest corridor.
The restructuring of Sun Metro routes under Sun Metro Rising coincides with major transportation improvements that have transformed accessibility to the area. Phase 1 of the I-10 Widening West Project, from Mesa to Vinton, has been substantially completed, providing three continuous lanes of traffic in both directions and significantly improving travel throughout the corridor. At the same time, ongoing construction of the Artcraft Project has maintained freeway connectivity while advancing critical infrastructure improvements for the region.
“For several years, businesses throughout the Northwest worked through construction impacts while continuing to serve the community,” said Carlos Rodriguez, General Manager at the Outlet Shoppes at El Paso. “Today, we’re celebrating something much bigger than a bus route. We’re celebrating renewed access, connectivity, and investment in the Westside. The restoration of direct transit access to The Outlet Shoppes through Route 12, and the progress made on our transportation infrastructure, sends a strong message that Northwest El Paso is open, accessible, and thriving.”
During the absence of direct transit service, The Outlet Shoppes received frequent inquiries from residents seeking transportation options to the center. The return of the bus stop at The Outlet Shoppes through Route 12 responds directly to community demand and restores an important connection between the Northwest and the rest of El Paso.
Mayor Pro Tempore Alejandra Chávez emphasized the importance of ensuring transportation access keeps pace with the area’s continued growth.
“The Northwest continues to grow and attract new residents, businesses, and visitors,” Chávez said. “Reliable transportation options are essential to supporting that growth. The return of Sun Metro service, combined with major infrastructure investments by TxDOT, helps ensure that our community remains connected, accessible, and positioned for continued success.”
The improvements are also expected to benefit visitors from throughout the Borderplex region, including Mexican nationals and international visitors who have long relied on public transportation to access shopping, employment opportunities, and services in Northwest El Paso.
Together, the transportation investments represent a renewed commitment to mobility, economic development, and quality of life for residents throughout the region.
Transportation Improvements Supporting Northwest Growth
· Restoration of the bus stop at The Outlet Shoppes, and other service improvements implemented citywide through Sun Metro Rising, effective June 14
· Connections to Route 15 and the Brio 205 Mesa Corridor
· Completion of Phase 1 of the I-10 Widening West Project (Mesa to Vinton)
· Continuous freeway access maintained throughout the Artcraft Project
· Improved access to businesses, employment centers, schools, and regional destinations
· Enhanced connectivity between the Northwest and the rest of El Paso
As Northwest El Paso continues to grow, community leaders and transportation partners remain committed to ensuring residents and visitors have safe, reliable, and convenient access to the area’s businesses, services, and attractions.
