El Paso County develops 75-mile linear park trail to promote community health

The El Paso County Commissioners Court meeting on June 16, 2025, highlighted significant developments in community health and recreation, particularly through the ongoing linear park project. Commissioner David Stout emphasized the importance of the trail system, which aims to create a 75-mile network connecting neighborhoods across El Paso County, from the New Mexico border to Hudspeth County. This initiative, part of the Paso Del Norte Veil project, is designed to promote healthy living by providing residents with accessible outdoor spaces for biking and hiking.

Stout noted that while the project is still underway, the sections of the trail that are open are already fostering community connections. "The more opportunities that people have, I think, the healthier our community is gonna be," he stated, reflecting the project's potential to enhance community well-being.

In addition to the trail discussions, the meeting addressed the maintenance of local golf courses and sports parks. Tim Fulton, the director of Parks and Recreation, shared updates on efforts to improve the condition of golf courses, including the hiring of a new superintendent focused on enhancing greens and fairways while managing water usage effectively. He also reported a surge in youth sports participation, with the summer league expected to grow from 150 to 250 teams, indicating a vibrant community engagement in recreational activities.

Fulton acknowledged the challenges of maintaining sports fields due to increased usage but assured that improvements are underway. The county is committed to enhancing facilities to accommodate the growing number of young athletes, ensuring that they have quality spaces to play and interact.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored the county's dedication to fostering a healthier, more connected community through recreational initiatives and infrastructure improvements. These efforts not only aim to enhance the quality of life for residents but also to build stronger community bonds through shared outdoor experiences.