Building a Brighter Future Together
Join us in our mission to become stewards of this treasured heritage.
Building a Brighter Future Together
Join us in our mission to become stewards of this treasured heritage.
Who We Are
The Historic Mission Trail
The Mission Trail in El Paso transcends being merely a road; it's a historical narrative stretching back over 500 years. It represents a crucial chapter in American history, marked by the arrival of Spanish explorers and missionaries. The missions along the 9-mile trail, including the Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission, and San Elizario Chapel, are among the earliest in the United States. These missions stand as testaments to the architectural ingenuity of the early Spanish settlers and the indigenous communities who contributed to their construction.
The trail epitomizes the blend of Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American influences, evident in the local art, cuisine, and festivals, making it a living museum of cultural fusion. This cultural richness has led to communities along the Mission Trail being honored with titles such as "America's Best Historic Small Town" and the best historic town in Texas, accolades featured in various travel magazines.
How the Alliance Started
In 2023, the El Paso Chamber of Commerce, backed by the supportive efforts of Congressman Tony Gonzalez's office, gathered over 30 influential leaders representing every municipality on the trail.
Mission Trail Alliance
•Bi-weekly meetings
•Quarterly in-person meetings
•Planning and zoning coordination
•Transportation and safety infrastructure Grants and legislative proposals
Key Areas of Focus
Where we are headed 2024-2030
Promoting Historical Significance
Promoting Historical Significance
Through collective support, planning, and promotion, the MTA will identify projects and secure State and Federal grants. The following slides will present a few examples.
•Identify Opportunities to Promote the Historical Significance of the Mission Trail
•Identify Opportunities to Support Small Business & Economic Development •Identify and Coordinate Opportunities for Transportation, Infrastructure, and Safety Projects Along the Corridor
Promoting Historical Significance
Promoting Historical Significance
Promoting Historical Significance
Projects include:
•UNESCO World Heritage Site
•El Paso County façade program
•New historical markers
•Infrastructure beautification
•Multijurisdictional zoning
•Ysleta del Sur Pueblo events
Economic Development Opportunities
Transportation & Safety Infrastructure
Transportation & Safety Infrastructure
Projects include:
•Business retention and expansion
•Attracting investors (FDI)
•Low-interest financing services
•Local art business development
•National Parks Service RTCA
Transportation & Safety Infrastructure
Transportation & Safety Infrastructure
Transportation & Safety Infrastructure
Projects include:
•Trail infrastructure and amenities
•USDOT and EDA grants
•EPMPO planning documents
•Street crossing safety analysis
•Driveway improvements
•Right-of-way acquisitions