Magoffin Historic District to witness surge in modern buildings

Should the age-old character of an area be retained or some structural changes be allowed to gratify the changing aspirations of ages? This has always been a contentious issue throughout the world and several states in the realm of United States are no exceptions. Take for instance the Magoffin Historic District in Central El Paso. Magoffin Homestead was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. The surrounding area was declared the Magoffin Historic District on February 19, 1985. The home is now known as the Magoffin Home State Historic Site.

But the same historic site is going to witness a new surge in the development of buildings. How? The City Council approved the construction of a group of buildings in the historic district since Centro de Salud La Fe and TVO North America want to build two three-story buildings in the Magoffin Historic District in Central El Paso. It has been learnt that the duo would add on 1,700 square feet of retail space and almost 100 apartment units. Well, it has been decided that 20 percent of them would be for reasonably priced housing. Is this a notable achievement or an intention to change the historic character of the neighborhood? It’s, indeed, quite difficult to say since this depends on the personal outlook.

However, the Historic Landmark Commission tried in every way or left no stone unturned to prevent the construction. According to their prudence, the structures are too great for the area and the appearance contrasts to the highest degree with the historic look of the neighborhood. But the triumph of the City Council has set everything very clearly and the duo will be allowed to proceed with the construction.

Well, the question can still be raised whether any bid to change the position of a region noted for its history is justified. But there are many who state the requisites of the same region can’t be brushed aside.

In the past, the city approved $1.5 million in funds for the project as it has the idea of an affordable housing whereas the total expenditure of the development is likely to be more than $8 million.