El Paso County moves forward with 75-mile Paso De Norte Trail initiative

El Paso County is making strides toward a healthier community with the ambitious development of a 75-mile county-wide trail system, as highlighted during the June 16, 2025, Commissioners Court meeting. Commissioner David Stout emphasized that this initiative, part of a collaborative effort with the city and the Paso del Norte Health Foundation, aims to create a linear park that stretches from the New Mexico border to Hudspeth County.

The project, known as the Paso del Norte Trail, began construction in 2018 and is designed to promote active lifestyles among residents. Stout noted that while the trail is still under construction, the segments that are open are already connecting neighborhoods and providing vital recreational opportunities. "The more opportunities that people have, I think, the healthier our community is gonna be," he stated, underscoring the trail's potential impact on public health.

In addition to the trail discussions, the meeting also addressed the maintenance of local golf courses and sports parks. Tim Fulton, the director of parks and recreation, shared insights on the challenges of maintaining green spaces in a desert environment. He introduced the new golf course superintendent, Brad Weiss, who is focused on improving the condition of the greens and fairways while managing water usage effectively.

The meeting highlighted the growing popularity of youth sports leagues, with participation numbers expected to rise significantly this year. Fulton expressed enthusiasm about the community's engagement in outdoor activities, stating, "It's great to see... our kids out there interacting with each other."

As El Paso County continues to invest in its parks and recreational facilities, the developments promise to enhance community well-being and foster connections among residents. The trail system and improvements to local parks are set to play a crucial role in shaping a healthier, more active future for the county.