Breaking Now News: El Paso County Breaks Ground on Water and Sewer Infrastructure Project

El Paso County, in collaboration with the Lower Valley Water District, is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony today for a significant infrastructure project that aims to improve water and sewer services in the historic Colonias of the Lower Valley.

The project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), focuses on three neighborhoods: Panorama Village, Angel Park, and Athena West. These areas have lacked proper sewer connections for years, relying on outdated septic systems that pose serious health risks.

County Commissioner Iliana Holguin expressed the importance of this project, stating, "This is a very big deal for our community. Unfortunately, many neighborhoods in El Paso County still lack basic water and wastewater sewer services."

Since receiving federal funds in October 2022, the county has been working on the design and environmental study phases. Despite challenges like labor shortages and rising costs, Commissioner Holguin anticipates construction to be completed by the year's end.

Residents in these neighborhoods have long awaited this development. A 2018 study by a University of Texas at El Paso professor revealed that 32,000 people in El Paso County lacked sewer service, leading to complaints about odors and septic system issues. The project promises a sanitary, clean, and efficient waste disposal system.

"These projects truly are life-changing for these neighborhoods," Holguin emphasized. "Many of us within the city limits of El Paso take basic infrastructure services for granted."

Holguin also mentioned that the county has more projects lined up under the federal fund to further enhance water and wastewater services for underserved areas in the future.

The groundbreaking ceremony will commence at 9:00 a.m. behind the Lower Valley Water District (1557 FM 1110, Clint, TX 79836).

What do you think?

• Do you believe infrastructure projects like this are essential for community development?
• Should more federal funds be allocated to improve water and sewer services in underserved areas?
• What challenges do you think similar projects might face in the future?