Local residents voice concerns over proposed 30-unit apartment complex on Lafayette Drive

In a recent City Plan Commission meeting held on May 8, 2025, residents of Lafayette Drive voiced their concerns over a proposed development that would add 30 new apartment units to their neighborhood. The meeting, which took place in the heart of El Paso, highlighted the growing tension between community needs and urban development.

One resident, who lives on Lafayette Drive, expressed anxiety about the potential increase in traffic that the new apartments could bring. "Lafayette as it is right now is like a freeway," he stated, noting that the street already experiences heavy congestion, particularly during emergencies when fire trucks must navigate through the area. He emphasized that the addition of 30 units would exacerbate the already dangerous traffic conditions on what he described as a small residential street.

Abel Ortiz, president of the Lafayette Water Users Association, echoed these concerns. He pointed out that there are already two apartment complexes on Lafayette Street, contributing to significant traffic issues. Ortiz recalled that a gas company had previously reduced the street's size, further complicating the flow of vehicles. "It's only a two-way deal right there," he explained, highlighting the challenges residents face when navigating their own neighborhood.

Despite the residents' apprehensions, the City Plan Commission moved forward with the proposal. After a brief discussion, the commissioners voted to approve the development with conditions outlined in the staff report. The decision reflects a broader trend in urban planning where the demand for housing often clashes with the realities of existing infrastructure.

As the meeting concluded, the implications of this decision lingered in the air. Residents left with a sense of uncertainty about how the new apartments would impact their community, while city officials continued to push forward with plans to accommodate El Paso's growing population. The balance between development and community safety remains a pressing issue for many neighborhoods in the city.