Groundbreaking of the new Weslaco Outlet Mall

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new Weslaco Outlet mall was held on Friday, April 8, 2005. Construction of the $150 million project is expected to begin in the next few months north of town on International Blvd., near Mile 10. Mayor Joe Sanchez emphasized the name of International Boulevard. He explains that the name was chosen appropriately since city officials hoped business goes both ways from here to Mexico, but also from Mexico into our city. Sanchez also mentioned that International Blvd. would be widened by the Texas Department of Transportation. The proposed mall will have a 120 stores and an entertainment center with seating capacity of 15,000. Mayor Joe Sanchez said that over 1,500 jobs are expected in the area. The new outlet mall will resemble what is already in San Marcos, Sanchez said. It will be the only one in its kind south of San Antonio. Fidencio Flores, president and CEO of JRF LLC, spoke about the economic impact the new outlet mall would have on the city and thank the city for their support. Officials from Mexico attended the ceremony including, Reynosa Mayor Francisco J. Garcia Cabeza de Vaca and Mayor of Rio Bravo Juan de Dios Cavazos. It was a historical day for the City of Weslaco because all three mayors were present to celebrate the opening of the new business. Guests could not remember the last time when all the three officials were together.