El Paso County advances 75-mile trail project connecting parks and promoting healthy living

The El Paso County Commissioners Court meeting on July 10, 2025, highlighted significant developments in local parks and recreational facilities, emphasizing the county's commitment to enhancing community health and connectivity through outdoor activities.

One of the standout discussions centered around the Playa Drain Trail, a picturesque 7-mile pathway that connects Ascarate Park to Campestrano Park in the Lower Valley. Commissioner David Stout noted that this trail is part of a larger vision for a 75-mile county-wide trail system. This ambitious project aims to create a linear park that stretches from the New Mexico border to Hudspeth County, promoting healthy living and outdoor engagement among residents. Stout emphasized the importance of these trails in fostering community connections, stating, "The more opportunities that people have, I think the healthier our community is gonna be."

The meeting also addressed the maintenance and improvement of local golf courses, with Tim Fulton, the director of Parks and Recreation, discussing recent efforts to enhance the quality of the greens and fairways. A new golf course superintendent, Brad Weiss, has been hired to oversee these improvements, focusing on water management and soil health to reduce costs while maintaining high standards for the courses.

Additionally, the growing popularity of youth sports leagues was a key topic. Fulton reported a significant increase in participation, with the summer league expected to expand from 150 to 250 teams. This surge in activity has led to increased wear and tear on the fields, prompting the maintenance team to prioritize improvements to ensure safe and enjoyable playing conditions for young athletes.

The meeting concluded with a focus on community engagement, particularly through inclusive parks like Eskerdito Park, which offers facilities for children of all abilities. These developments reflect the county's ongoing efforts to create vibrant, accessible spaces for recreation and community bonding.

As El Paso County continues to invest in its parks and recreational infrastructure, residents can look forward to enhanced opportunities for outdoor activities that promote health, well-being, and community spirit.