El Paso City Council approves downtown property purchases for Convention Center expansion
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The El Paso City Council has approved the purchase of several downtown properties to prepare for a possible expansion and modernization of the El Paso Convention Center.
The acquisitions total about $3.17 million and include properties at 311 W. Overland Ave, 315 W. Overland Ave., and a portion of Block 25 along West San Antonio Avenue. The sites are located next to the current convention center and would provide additional space for future development.
City officials said the move is part of a long-term plan to grow El Paso’s tourism industry, attract large-scale conventions, and continue revitalizing the downtown area. Expanding and upgrading the convention center has been a component of the city’s strategic plan since 2019.
The purchases will be funded through the Hotel Occupancy Tax, which is paid by visitors who stay in local hotels. That tax revenue supports projects designed to promote tourism and economic activity.
The city said the expansion would build on previous downtown investments, including more than $250 million in private development that has added hotel rooms and restored historic properties. Officials expect the project to create jobs during both construction and future operations while boosting hotel occupancy rates and tax revenue.
City leaders emphasized that the plan remains in its early stages. The property purchases secure land for potential expansion, but detailed design and planning work will take place later after additional studies and community input.
The city said the project aims to position El Paso as a leading destination for business, cultural, and leisure events while supporting sustainable growth and making downtown public spaces more accessible.
ABC-7 also spoke with the owner of the property that is being purchased by the city. Justin Churchman and his family own property throughout El Paso and they want to help usher in new opportunities for the city.
"I love this city. We're happy to support it and happy to see what it brings in the future."
The Churchmans own an apartment complex that will be purchased, but it has been empty since September. No tenants will be impacted by the sale.
"They were all filled and they were all happily vacated. The contracts ended and I think that it was a big opportunity for the city to see available growth for the people around us."
Churchman was very happy that hotels would be the one's who are footing the bill. He likes that they are investing into downtown.
"To hear that they're willing to help, accept that into their payment structure and really help step up. I mean, that's amazing to hear for the city, and I think that we need continued investment."
