Presenter: Corky Kuhlmann

Commission Agenda Item No. 19
Action
Land Donation – El Paso County
Franklin Mountains State Park
November 2007

I. Executive Summary: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has been offered a donation of 62.759 acres of land representing an inholding at Franklin Mountains State Park.

II. Discussion: Franklin Mountains State Park (FMSP) in El Paso, Texas is the largest urban park in the nation, covering some 24,247 acres and lies entirely within the city limits of El Paso. FMSP was created by an Act of the Texas State Legislature in 1979 authorizing Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to acquire Franklin Mountains as a state park. The intent of the Legislature was to provide lasting protection to the outstanding scenic, ecological and historic features of the Franklin Mountains so that they could be enjoyed and appreciated by present and future generations. TPWD acquired the property in 1981; it was opened to the public in 1987 for limited use.

In keeping with TPWD's effort to expand the recreational opportunities available at FMSP, El Paso Electric has offered a donation of 62.759 acres of 150 foot wide utility right-of-way to be used to expand the park's trail system. This donation has the potential to add 18,000 feet of trail. El Paso Electric would keep a standard utility easement on the donation tract.

III. Recommendation: The staff recommends the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

"The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission authorizes the Executive Director to take all necessary steps to acquire by donation approximately 62.759 acres in El Paso County as an addition to Franklin Mountains State Park."

Attachments – 1

  1. Exhibit A – Location Map

Commission Agenda Item No. 19
Exhibit A

Location Map

Location of proposed donation in relation to Franklin Mountains State Park

For help in interpreting this map, please contact Corky Kuhlmann.