EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 City Rep. Cynthia Boyar Trejo is addressing growing concerns in Northeast El Paso after the YMCA Bowling Family Center announced it will close May 15, leaving residents without a longtime community resource.<\/p>\n
The closure follows the expiration of the YMCA\u2019s lease with the City of El Paso, which owns the facility. The YMCA said it evaluated renewal options but determined that continuing operations at the location was not financially sustainable due to the facility\u2019s condition, location, and associated costs.<\/p>\n
Boyar Trejo, who represents the Northeast, took to social media last week to address the closure and how the impact goes beyond losing a building. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe closure of the Y is more than just a loss of the facility; it has been a place of connection, a routine of health and wellness. And it impacts families, youth, and seniors,\u201d Boyar Trejo said.<\/p>\n
The city said the building has been leased to the YMCA for $1 a year since 1960, with the YMCA handling operations and maintenance.<\/p>\n
Boyar Trejo continued to break down the timeline of events that led to the closure, stating that in 2024, the city proposed a discounted $1,000-a-month lease and requested documentation on programs and public benefits. <\/p>\n
However, Boyar Trejo said that information was never provided.<\/p>\n
Then in December 2025, the YMCA notified the city that it would close due to financial challenges. <\/p>\n
In 2026, it requested $20,000 a month, asking the city to take over maintenance. The city then offered short-term support of about $8,300 a month to keep the pool open through summer, as the Veterans Park pool is under repair, but officials said the YMCA still chose to close effective May 15.<\/p>\n
\u201cDespite continued discussions, the YMCA stated it could not continue operations beyond May 15, 2026. This decision was made by the Y, not the city,\u201d Boyar Trejo said. “I want to be clear, I understand what this means to our community, and I’m not stepping back, nor am I sitting around waiting to see what happens.” <\/p>\n
According to Boyar Trejo, the Veterans Pool remains under repair, with reopening expected later this year. The city estimates $12 million in total repairs, including nearly $5 million to begin.<\/p>\n
In the meantime, Camp Cohen Aquatic Center will offer limited community swimming on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. for lap swimming, water fitness, and swimming lessons for ages 14 and up.<\/p>\n
\u201cI know this isn’t a replacement, but it\u2019s a step, and I will continue to build at it. We are moving forward with focus, urgency, and with a commitment to this community. Our seniors deserve this, our youth deserve opportunity. Our family deserves spaces that support their fitness and wellbeing, and will continue to advocate for that,\u201d Boyar Trejo said.<\/p>\n
Boyar Trejo said she will continue working to bring services back to Northeast El Paso and is asking anyone with questions to contact her office. <\/p>\n
RECOMMENDED: YMCA of El Paso to close Bowling Family YMCA branch after lease expires<\/a><\/p>\n