Multi-Million Dollar Project Set To Revitalize Northeast Neighborhood
EL PASO — Millions of dollars will be geared towards the revitalization of a Northeast neighborhood, according to city officials.
City officials said the multi-million Lower-Dyer Revitalization Project will begin in September. The project will encompass a 64-block area between the Patriot Freeway, Justus, Hayes and Van Buren streets.
The city plans to add several programs that will help prevent graffiti, gang activity and prostitution. A community center with valuable after-school programs for students is also in the planning stages. The Center Against Family Violence will also get involved by starting several programs in the area, officials said.
Bill Lilly, the director for the city’s Community Development Department, said the program will cost close to $60-million dollars.
“I think you’re going to see a very well-maintained neighborhood that the residents are going to be very proud of,” said Lilly. “I think you’re going to see a reduction in crime, an improvement in neighborhood appearance and an increase in home ownership opportunities.”
Ben Parks, a business owner in the area, believes money that is generated in the neighborhood does not stay there. “I think Dyer is just as busy as Mesa or Lee Trevino and look how it looks,” he said, pointing towards old buildings that line Dyer street.
It may be a while before Parks gets his wish.
According to Lilly, the millions needed for the project are still not accounted for. He plans to ask the city for about $5-million dollars and said the rest will come from grants and private developers.
