Elevator issues at El Paso County Sportspark

The long-suffering El Paso County Sportspark finally opened earlier this year after lengthy delays from contractor disputes and more. But now there may be problems with a particular important part of the facility.

An ABC-7 viewer wishing to remain anonymous wrote to us with this concern:

“I was wondering if you could get some answers for some issues here at the County Sportspark. My family would like to come see my boys play, but refuse to attend (due to) the fact that the elevator has been out of service for the past 3 months. They have no access for handicapped / wheelchairs to view the game on the top level or even to buy food from the restaurant. Management here has been saying that a part to remedy the problem is on backorder. So if you could maybe make some calls I would appreciate it.”

The Sportspark has been re-opened for about six months now, after finally completing all of the improvements and renovations like the big central clubhouse structure with the restaurant and pro shop in the middle of the four fields closest to the entrance. And commissioners say that there have been some issues that they have been hearing about with some of the improvements.

“It’s happened more than once,” said Commissioner Carlos Leon (D). “So something must be wearing out. Or something’s just not working the way it should be. But the main thing again is the county needs to be more vigilant.”

Leon represents Precinct 1 where the Sportspark is located, and has been a big supporter of the project. Leon said the elevator is under warranty, and has been fixed at least once before, but there might need to be more of a focus on keeping it in good working order

“I know there was one instance where a lady had a kid, a little baby in a stroller,” Leon said. “The elevator was broken. Someone had to help her up the stairs to the upstairs. So I understand the frustration, and as soon as we get finished here, I’m going to find out why that elevator hasn’t been fixed. It was fixed, then it came back down, so there is some issue with it.”

ABC-7 followed up with Leon after first bringing up the concerns. He said that there were repairs going on now, but that in the long run he’s looking at better signage to let people know what the elevator is for and to prevent misuse.

“A lot of people will let their kids play on it,” Leon said. “And it’s specifically made for ADA.”

The Sportspark re-opened in April of this year after about 4 years of delays and contractor issues holding it back.