SPI Insights

El Paso councilmembers took action this week to resolve a long legal battle with an historic preservationist over an area of Union Plaza where a new arena had been planned.

At its November 9 meeting, the City Council discussed the matter in executive session before emerging to direct staff to seek options for resolution to the litigation.

The day before, at a council workshop, councilmembers approved the development of cost estimates for the Multi-Purpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Center in an area of downtown called Duranguito.

The city will soon hire a consultant to prepare a project concept and partnership opportunity guidelines including public-private partnership specifications.

In addition, consultants will develop a financial model to include estimates of capital costs and operating costs.

As part of the approval, city staff will work with architects to design a multi-purpose center to incorporate preservation of historic buildings and recommend strategies for safeguarding damaged buildings.