Developer of 22-story tower in West El Paso thanks supporters
The developer of the proposed Shadow Mountain Project in West El Paso, the Meyers Group, held a community rally to thank supporters.
Supporters at the rally were given shirts that read RISE EP.
The $100 million project includes retail space, 219 hotel rooms, 228 apartments and a 715-car parking garage.
The architect, Kobi Karp, was at the rally.
“I think that here I’m creating an opportunity for people who live in the community to walk, ride their bike, to come to this mixed use development and use it for something that otherwise they wouldn’t. People who live in the neighborhood usually get in the car, and then they have to drive. I’m giving them an opportunity to just walk,” Karp said.
Mike Monro was among the supporters.
“It raises the property value of the entire area. And with the property value comes bigger taxes and every city needs money right now,” Monro said.
But not everyone is convinced the project is a good idea. Lindsay Kronmiller started a petition against the proposed tower near the existing 11-story Coronado tower.
“I think a mixed-use project in that area would be great. I question whether 200 and something new apartments would be useful in an area that is congested with apartments that are not full,” Kronmiller said.
More traffic congestion and the tower being too tall were among the chief complaints from people. Despite a couple of petitions, the project is progressing.
Some opposed to the proposed project are now softening to the idea of compromise. Kristyn Ingram hopes to see a smaller version of the tower.
“I am holding out hope that the developer will listen to what we have to say. And if the project does go through, at least a compromise can be made,” said Ingram.
Developer Josh Meyers lives in the same area where the tower is proposed and has said the project is not set in stone.
“We want people in the area to come and experience it and really love it and say this is El Paso and we want to be a part of this. If it’s too much, we will take that into consideration. We will work with you guys. I will,” Meyers said.
Another meeting is scheduled for Thursday. That one is informational and will be attended by both supporters and those against the project. It will be held at 6 p.m. at the Western Hills Elementary School at 530 Thunderbird Drive.
El Paso City Council members are expected to vote on proposed project on July 12.
