El Paso, TX – April 16, 2025 – The El Paso Downtown Management District (DMD) has launched the Downtown Residential Conversion Utility Upgrade Grant Program, a new initiative aimed at encouraging residential development in the heart of the city by supporting the conversion of existing buildings into market-rate housing.
“As we continue to invest in the future of Downtown El Paso, it’s critical that we create opportunities for residential growth,” said Joe Gudenrath, Executive Director of the DMD. “This program helps remove barriers to development, making it easier for property owners to bring more housing options to our vibrant Downtown community.”
The program offers reimbursement-based funding to assist with utility upgrades—electrical, gas, water, and sewer—required to support residential conversions. Grants of up to $50,000 are available. Projects under $25,000 require no match. For projects exceeding $25,000:
- Developments with 5–20 market-rate units require a dollar-for-dollar match up to $25,000.
- Developments with 21- 40 market-rate units do not require matching funds.
The program is available for existing structures and new construction and aligns with the DMD’s commitment to limiting demolition and displacement while promoting smart, sustainable urban growth. The goal is to incentivize adaptive reuse and infill development that complements the Downtown area’s character.
Eligible projects must be located within the Downtown Management District boundaries and include a minimum of five market-rate residential units. Mixed-income projects that include both market-rate and below-market housing may also qualify, with funding amounts determined by the number of market-rate units included.
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. For full program details and application materials, visit downtownelpaso.com/downtown-grant-programs
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