El Paso has seen a flurry of activity this week, with notable developments in government projects, political campaigns, health alerts, and community initiatives. From the redevelopment of historic buildings to the latest in local politics and public health, here’s a comprehensive look at what’s been happening in the Sun City.

The week kicked off with significant updates on the redevelopment of the Popular Dry Goods Building in Downtown El Paso. The city has awarded an additional $1 million to support the transformation of this historic structure into a modern mixed-use space. This brings the total incentives for the project to approximately $8.35 million including tax breaks and reimbursements.

The Popular Building Redevelopment: A Historic Transformation

The Popular Dry Goods Building located at 301 E. San Antonio St. is set to become a vibrant hub with 99 apartments and several ground-floor retail spaces. The city’s economic development director, Karina Brasgalla highlighted the importance of the project, noting that the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The latest $1 million allocation is earmarked for facade improvements, a critical aspect of preserving the building’s historic charm. The project has received substantial support from both the city and county, including a $4 million zero-interest development loan and a $2.4 million city property tax rebate over 10 years. Developer Robert Palacios has stated that the project is on track for completion by 2028 with the Chicago-based firm McCaffery Interests providing support.

While no major construction work is visible yet, Brasgalla assured that the project is progressing through the architectural design and permitting processes. She recently toured the building and noted the ongoing cleanup efforts, despite the lack of air conditioning. The project is estimated to cost up to $50 million with financing details and a construction timeline still being finalized.

Political Landscape: A Quiet Campaign Season

In the political arena, Adam Bauman the Republican nominee challenging incumbent Democrat Veronica Escobar for El Paso’s 16th Congressional District seat, has raised little to no money for his campaign. Bauman filed a brief report with the Federal Election Commission on July 15 indicating that he had not met the $5,000 reporting threshold. This is a stark contrast to Escobar, who has raised over $865,000 for her re-election bid.

Bauman’s lack of fundraising is notable, especially considering that his predecessor, Irene Armendariz-Jackson had raised nearly $40,000 at this point in the 2026 campaign. The national Republican Party has shown little interest in the district, where Democrats have dominated for nearly a century.

Health Alerts: West Nile Virus Cases Confirmed

The El Paso Department of Public Health has confirmed two cases of neuroinvasive West Nile virus this summer. One patient is a man in his 80s from the Lower Valley ZIP code 79907 who was hospitalized. The second patient is a woman in her 60s from the Upper Valley ZIP code 79932 who has significant underlying medical conditions and is recovering in a rehabilitation facility.

Dr. Hector Ocaranza city and county health authority, emphasized the importance of preventive measures to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. He recommended following the four Ds using DEET-based insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, avoiding outdoor activities during dusk and dawn and draining standing water to prevent mosquito breeding.

The health department also advised residents to install or repair window and door screens and to report standing water or mosquito breeding sites by calling 911 or 311.

Community Initiatives: Education and Historical Recognition

El Paso Community College (EPCC) is inviting adults without high school diplomas to learn about two programs that could help them earn a diploma and a college credential. The event will be held on July 23 at the Transmountain Campus. EPCC representatives will explain the benefits of the Opportunity High School Diploma and Career and Technical Education programs, which launched in spring 2026.

Additionally, the community will honor Elvira Villa Escajeda the founder of the Chamizal Civic Association with the placement of a historical marker on July 18. Escajeda, who lived from 1920 to 2026 was a community organizer, businesswoman, and seamstress. She played a pivotal role in securing fair-market compensation for residents displaced by the 1964 Chamizal Treaty.

The ceremony will take place at Hart Elementary School followed by the unveiling of the historical marker at the intersection of Park Street and Olivas V. Aoy Ave.

As the week comes to a close, El Paso continues to make strides in historic preservation, political engagement, public health, and community education. Stay tuned for more updates as the city moves forward with these exciting developments.