El Paso County plans 75-mile trail connecting parks and promoting health

In the heart of El Paso County, a vision for a healthier community is taking shape along the Playa Drain Trail. Stretching nearly seven miles from Esquarte Park to Campestrano Park, this picturesque trail is just a small segment of a much larger initiative aimed at promoting outdoor activity and connectivity among residents. Commissioner David Stout highlighted the ambitious plan to develop a 75-mile county-wide trail system, which will stretch from the New Mexico border to Hudspeth County.

This project, known as the Paso De Norte Trail, began construction in 2018 and is designed to encourage healthy living by providing accessible spaces for biking and walking. As Stout noted, the more opportunities available for outdoor activities, the healthier the community will become. Local resident Leonardo echoed this sentiment, sharing how the trails not only connect neighborhoods but also strengthen family bonds through shared outdoor experiences.

The meeting also addressed the maintenance of local golf courses, a topic of great interest among community members. Tim Fulton, the director of Parks and Recreation, discussed the recent hiring of a new golf course superintendent, Brad Weiss, who brings extensive experience to the role. Weiss is focused on improving the condition of the greens and fairways while also implementing water management strategies to reduce costs and environmental impact.

Additionally, the county's youth sports programs are thriving, with participation numbers soaring. Fulton reported a significant increase in teams at the sports park, reflecting a growing interest in youth athletics. The maintenance of these fields is a priority, as the demand for quality playing surfaces continues to rise.

As El Paso County moves forward with these initiatives, the commitment to enhancing community health and engagement through outdoor spaces remains a central theme, promising a brighter future for residents eager to connect with nature and each other.