EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The El Paso City Council is moving ahead with the next phase of a planned expansion and modernization of the El Paso Convention Center.
The council authorized the purchase of key Downtown properties to advance the project, the City said in a news release.
The council voted 6-1 in favor of the land purchase, with Rep. Lily Limon voting “no.” Rep. Deanna Maldonado-Rocha was not present.
The acquisitions, totaling approximately $3.17 million, include 301 Overland Ave., 320 W. San Antonio Ave., and a portion of Block 25 along W. San Antonio Ave.. These sites, located next to the current Convention Center campus, will provide the additional space needed for future expansion, the City said.
This step moves the City closer to creating a modern, competitive facility capable of hosting major state and national events that currently exceed El Paso’s capacity, the City said in its news release.
This initiative is part of the City’s long-term strategy to strengthen the tourism economy, attract high-impact conventions, and reinforce Downtown as a center of economic and cultural activity, the City said.
Expanding and modernizing the Convention Center has been a component of City Council’s strategic plan since 2019, reflecting an ongoing commitment to invest in Downtown revitalization and economic growth.
The purchase will be funded through the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT), which is paid by visitors who stay in local hotels and supports tourism-related projects.
The expansion builds on years of strategic Downtown investment, including more than $250 million in private development that will add over 1,100 new hotel rooms and restore historic properties to support a vibrant tourism district, the City said.
By increasing capacity and amenities, the Convention Center expansion will drive higher hotel occupancy rates, boost Hotel Occupancy Tax revenues, and create local jobs throughout both construction and operations, the City said.
While this action sets the groundwork for future growth, the City is still in the early stages of the process. The purchase of these properties secures the space needed for potential expansion, but detailed design and planning will come later, following a comprehensive evaluation of long-term goals and community priorities, the City said.
Beyond its economic benefits, the project strengthens El Paso’s position as a premier destination for business, leisure, and cultural gatherings, the City said.
“It reflects the City’s commitment to sustainable growth, efficient use of existing infrastructure, and meaningful community engagement through improved and accessible public spaces,” the City said.
For more information about the El Paso Convention Center and upcoming events, click here.
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