EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso City Council has approved a lease agreement that will keep recreation and wellness services going at the former Bowling Branch facility in Northeast El Paso by allowing the Carl L. Robinson HEAT Retreat nonprofit organization to operate the site.

The agreement covers the city-owned facility at 5509 Will Ruth Ave.

It includes a five-year initial term with two optional one-year renewals. Under the lease, the nonprofit will pay $12,000 a year, compared with an estimated market rental value of about $448,000 annually, city officials said.

The city said the reduced rate reflects the public benefit it receives, including continued community services, tenant-funded improvements, and the nonprofit taking responsibility for operating and maintaining the facility.

Today’s approval is a big win for Northeast residents. This nonprofit is preserving programming, community services, and wellness for all ages,” said District 4 City Representative Cynthia Boyar Trejo. “I’m also proud it honors the legacy of Carl L. Robinson, a dedicated public servant who cared deeply for this community.

City officials described the partnership as a community investment that also helps reduce future financial obligations for taxpayers. The nonprofit has committed approximately $2.2 million in phased, performance-based capital improvements during the first three years of the lease to support modernization and long-term sustainability.

RELATED: Rep. Cynthia Boyar Trejo addresses concerns as YMCA Bowling Family Center set to close

The partnership structure is also expected to reduce the city’s long-term capital exposure, estimated at up to $12.5 million, city officials said.

To support residents during the transition, the city launched a pilot Community Morning Swim program at Camp Cohen Water Park, 9700 Gateway N. Blvd., offering an option for aquatic fitness while the former Bowling Branch facility transitions to a new operator and while Veterans Pool undergoes repairs.

The pilot program runs through Sept. 7 and is available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7 to 10:30 a.m. for residents ages 14 and older. Participants can use designated lap lanes, do individual water aerobics and take part in self-guided water exercise. Daily admission is $5 per session, and City Wave and City Wave+ season pass holders receive complimentary access.

More information about the Community Morning Swim program, season passes and swim lessons is available at www.EPWaterParks.com.

RELATED: YMCA of El Paso to close Bowling Family YMCA branch after lease expires

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