EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – El Paso City Council approved a new lease agreement that will keep recreation and wellness services operating at the former Bowling Branch facility in Northeast El Paso after uncertainty surrounding the site’s future.
According to the City, under the agreement, the nonprofit Carl L. Robinson HEAT Retreat will operate the City-owned facility at 5509 Will Ruth Avenue. through an initial five-year lease with two optional one-year extensions. The nonprofit will pay $12,000 annually to lease the property, significantly below the estimated market rental value of about $448,000 per year because of the public services and improvements included in the partnership.
City officials said on Tuesday, May 12 that the agreement helps preserve community programming while reducing long-term costs for taxpayers.
“Today’s approval is a big win for Northeast residents. This nonprofit is preserving programming, community services, and wellness for all ages,” District 4 City Representative Cynthia Boyar Trejo said. “I’m also proud it honors the legacy of Carl L. Robinson, a dedicated public servant who cared deeply for this community.”
As part of the agreement, the nonprofit plans to invest about $2.2 million in phased capital improvements during the first three years of the lease. The City said the partnership could also help avoid up to $12.5 million in future capital expenses that otherwise could have fallen on taxpayers.
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The approval comes after community members voiced concerns about the future of recreation services in Northeast El Paso following stalled lease negotiations involving the former YMCA branch.
To help residents during the transition period, the City launched a pilot Community Morning Swim program at Camp Cohen Water Park, located at 9700 Gateway N. Boulevard.
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The program runs through Sept. 7 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for residents ages 14 and older. Activities include lap swimming, water aerobics and self-guided water exercise.
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Admission costs $5 per session, while City Wave and City Wave+ pass holders receive free access. More information is available at EPWaterParks.com.
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