East Dallas is getting a major addition. A new Home Depot is set to rise at 9334 E R L Thornton Freeway, replacing the longtime home of Mercado Garibaldi Bazaar. The new store will total 135,675 square feet and is scheduled for completion by September 2026.
Construction is expected to begin in December 2025, according to filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The site sits along I-30 near Buckner Boulevard, one of the most heavily trafficked intersections in the area.
From farmland to a retail hub over decades
Back in 1946, the site was empty farmland. No development, no freeway, and no clear roads had yet taken shape. By 1957, construction was underway, and early retail or service buildings had started appearing. By 1968, the site had been built out into a structured commercial center.
Eventually, the property became home to Mercado Garibaldi Bazaar, an indoor market packed with vendors, small businesses, food stalls, and cultural events. It served as a community anchor for years before officially closing on March 31, 2025.
Home Depot plans signal strong demand in East Dallas
This will be one of the largest retail additions to the East Dallas area in years. The store’s 135,000+ square feet will provide tools, appliances, garden supplies, and home services in a high-visibility location. Several Home Depots already operate within 6 to 7 miles, including on Lemmon Avenue, Skillman Street, and Forest Lane.
The replacement of the Garibaldi Bazaar marks a shift in land use, from multi-vendor community market to big-box retail. Still, the move suggests strong long-term confidence in the growth and redevelopment of East Dallas.
Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by F.E.M