El Paso County updates Escoate Park with new amenities and festival area plans

Escoate Park is set to undergo significant upgrades aimed at enhancing the recreational experience for visitors. During a recent discussion with county officials, plans were unveiled for improvements that will benefit a variety of activities, from boating and fishing to golfing and pickleball.

Originally completed in 1940, Escoate Park spans 48 acres and features a lake, boardwalk, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park has evolved over the decades, but its core purpose as a multi-use space remains intact. In 2021, El Paso County adopted a master plan for its parks, inviting community input to shape future developments. This plan serves as a roadmap for the upcoming renovations.

Among the planned enhancements are new picnic areas, improved walking paths, and the planting of additional trees—approximately 150 have already been added in the past two years. The area previously occupied by the Western Playland amusement park will be transformed into a festival space, complete with underground electrical infrastructure to support various events and programming.

In terms of lake maintenance, Commissioner David Stout announced a potential shift in strategy. Instead of draining the lake for cleaning, officials are considering dredging it to remove sediment while preserving the existing clay liner, which has been found to be in good condition.

The park's location, nestled between the Franklin and Juarez Mountains, adds to its appeal, making it a unique gathering place for the community. As these upgrades take shape, Escoate Park is poised to become an even more vital part of the El Paso landscape, offering enhanced opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and community engagement.