City moves forward with Union Plaza redevelopment plans

Update (February 25, 2025): Today City Council authorized the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for redeveloping the 17 City-owned properties.

"In doing so, the Council reinforced its strong preference for adaptive reuse—an approach that modernizes existing structures while preserving their architectural and historical integrity," a spokesperson explained in a statement this mornign. "For buildings deemed Independently Eligible, redevelopment proposals must also include efforts to secure National Historic designation."

The RFQ is expected to be released in March and will identify qualified developers for the properties.

Update: El Paso City Council Representative for District 8 Chris Canales sent the following statement on his thoughts on the properties, which are in his district.

"The City's recommendation to move forward with a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for City-owned properties in the Duranguito neighborhood of Union Plaza marks a turning point for the revival of the Union Plaza area and the future of the Duranguito neighborhood. An RFQ, which I hope will be approved by the City Council at our next regular meeting, is a procurement process that ensures those interested in submitting proposals for a project meet specific requirements and have the necessary experience, financial capacity, and expertise to successfully carry it out.

With the voters' decision to discontinue the Multipurpose Center project (or MPC, sometimes known as the Downtown arena) last November, we now have an opportunity to reimagine this neighborhood in a way that respects its cultural significance while fostering thoughtful, community-focused development.

I have consistently maintained that any redevelopment must prioritize historic preservation, affordable housing, and accessible public space. The proposed RFQ will require protection of historic buildings that are independently eligible for the National Historic Register, prioritize adaptive reuse, and ensure that future development enhances the experience of neighborhood residents and visitors. Including those requirements in the text of the RFQ ensures that these commitments I have been speaking about for the last several years are not just words but will be fully realized in practice as the process moves forward.

The former MPC site in Duranguito is more than a collection of properties it is a living piece of the fabric of Downtown El Paso. As we move forward, I will continue to advocate for a transparent and inclusive process that honors the wishes of the community and transforms the area into a vibrant, people-centered district that benefits all El Pasoans."

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The City of El Paso is preparing to advance its plan to sell and redevelop 17 City-owned properties in the Union Plaza District.

In November's election, voters approved canceling the City's authority to use the remaining $128 million in general obligation bonds to build a Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Facility in the area.

"As part of this effort, City staff will present an item to the City Council on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, requesting formal Council action to authorize the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ); ensure adaptive reuse requirements; and mandate Historic Registration for Independently Eligible buildings upon sale of the properties," a City spokesperson explained today. "If approved, the RFQ is expected to be released mid-March 2025."

If the RFQ is approved, it will start the second phase of the City's plan for the Union Plaza properties. In its first phase, the City sought industry and community input.

The City spokesperson says that the team has received five letters of interest that have already been reviewed by City Council in Executive Session.

"However, since Council declined to move forward with direct sale negotiations, staff will be requesting Council approve proceeding with an RFQ process to identify qualified developers committed to adaptive reuse."

The City is looking to preserve the Union Plaza buildings' historic facades, enhance green and pedestrian-friendly spaces in the area, create new housing and retail options, and attract diverse industries to the neighborhood.