EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — El Paso County Commissoiners Court approved a $4.2 million design contract on Monday, Oct. 6 with Extigo Architecture of El Paso to launch a project that would do some major renovations at Ascarate Park.
The project is one of the major initiatives included in the 2024 bond that was approved by County voters in March 2024.
“This milestone moves the County into the design phase of a project that will improve the lake and reimagine Ascarate Park, the region’s largest public park and a place where families gather, children play, and generations come together,” the County said in a news release.
The project, part of Proposition A of the 2024 Capital Improvement Bond, reflects the County’s commitment to move quickly on voter-approved initiatives, the County said.
About the Contract
Exigo, a locally based, award-winning firm, will guide the project from community engagement and conceptual design through construction documents and coordination with the County’s construction manager at risk (CMAR), the County said.
Exigo has assembled a “dynamic team to deliver this project,” the County said.
That includes, the following:
- Surroundings Studio – landscape architects with “deep” experience in public space design.
- Biohabitats – nationally recognized consultants in ecological restoration and lake conservation.
- CDM Smith – infrastructure experts in water and well assessment and rehabilitation.
“Together, these partners will reimagine Ascarate Park as a regional destination designed to last 50 to 100 years while enhancing recreation, sustainability, and community enjoyment,” the County said.
Planned Enhancements
Key improvements will include:
- A new park entrance.
- Restoration of Ascarate Lake’s shoreline and ecological systems.
- Rehabilitation of the lake’s island.
- Expanded and renovated walking trails.
- Modern, accessible shelters, restrooms, and concessions.
- A new festival area with fencing, ticket booths, and restrooms.
- Undergrounding of electrical lines for safety and aesthetics.
About Exigo Architecture
Exigo is headquartered in El Paso and they have worked on such community projects as the Mexican American Cultural Center, La Nube Children’s Museum, and multiple new recreation centers across El Paso County, according to the news release.
Next Steps
The design process will include community engagement to ensure residents’ voices shape the park’s future, the County said.
The County will be announcing community meeting dates in the future.
Construction is expected to follow after design completion and contractor selection.
2024 El Paso County Capital Improvement Bond
In the November 2024 General Election, El Paso County voters approved three propositions from the Capital Improvement Bond Program: Proposition A for parks and recreation improvements; Proposition B for a new Medical Examiner facility; and Proposition E for the County’s first dedicated animal shelter. Together, these projects represent a $155 million investment in community spaces, public health, and animal welfare, the County said.
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