New TX-DOT Models Could Save Lincoln Center From Demolition

The Texas Department of Transportation revealed this week traffic models indicating the demolition of the historic Lincoln Center in South Central El Paso need a little more work.

The state agency has said it needs to demolish the building in order to build a new freeway ramp near the Spaghetti Bowl.

Last year, city council voted to explore the idea of saving some of the historic artifacts inside the building, which was the first school for Mexican-Americans in the city.

“Had we not taken action with a restraining order, Lincoln Center would be gone by now,” said City Representative Lily Limon.

According to Bob Bielek, TX-DOT’s chief engineer in El Paso, the state agency is revising its models.

“The reality is that by the information we have, the alternatives that allow Lincoln Center to stay, wouldn’t look as good,” said Bielek, “Perhaps once we get all this done, it’ll look a little bit better.”

Bielek told city council the Lincoln Center will remain standing at least until 2018.

Limon also updated ABC-7 on the city’s efforts to save the building murals.

“Reports indicate the murals could be moved,” Limon said, “The question is if it would be feasible because of the cost.”

According to Limon, the Library Department suggested photographing the murals to save them as artifacts.