Protesters take aim at El Paso’s plan to relocate people to make room for downtown arena

Protesters shouted “take back our city” and held signs that read “where will they go” outside of a community meeting to discuss relocation for those living in the footprint of the new downtown El Paso arena.

The protest, outside the old Fire Station 11 in downtown El Paso, was so loud it was difficult for city officials to make their relocation presentation to those about to lose their homes.

Sierra Martinez was among the dozens of people protesting the city’s plan to move residents and businesses in the path of the voter-approved $180 million Multipurpose Cultural and Performing Arts Center.

“People are going to be displaced from their neighborhoods. People in their 80’s, their 90’s, people who have lived here their whole life. Due process was denied to them. Profit over people won here,” Martinez said.

The city plans to acquire a two block area south of the Downtown Convention Center for the arena.

The “targeted footprint” for the arena would be bound by West San Antonio Avenue, South Santa Fe Street, West Paisano Street, and Leon Street. The city must first acquire the property before construction begins.

Local historians have asked the city not to demolish some of the buildings in the arena footprint, citing the area’s historical significance.

Among the relocation assistance that will reportedly be available to those in the area is a “tenant’s choice,” where the city will reimburse residents for actual moving costs and related expenses.

The proposal calls for residents to move themselves and be reimbursed; or have the city to do the moving and take care of the costs.

People will be able to choose one of three types of replacement housing payments. The city will offer a purchase supplement, rental assistance or down payment assistance.

Residents will have the right to appeal the amount of payment offered by the City.

Michael Patino was among the dozens of protesters. He believes the city needs to do more to help those losing their homes and neighborhood.

“El Paso, I want you to wake up and see this is not what you wanted. To displace poor innocent grandmothers, throw them out in the streets, give them three months of rent, What is that? Three months rent is not even enough,” Patino said.

City officials said during a news conference Monday, they will notify tenants and property owners affected about their options when it comes to relocation. The city said Monday at least 47 and as many as 55 people could be affected.

Businesses are also being extended similar choices through the plan. City officials said they will work with residents and businesses to cater the relocation options.

Despite the city moving forward with the plan for the arena, protesters are not giving up.

“We are going to fight until the last breath, the last person standing in this area. We are not going to give up,” Patino said.