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El Paso Water Acquires Cement Lake Property Without Dam Inspection, Raises Flood Concerns

KVIA••El Paso Matters
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El Paso Water recently acquired a 300-acre site known as Cement Lake from the Texas Department of Transportation for $4 million, aiming to preserve it as open space. However, the agency failed to inspect a 117-year-old dam on the property, which is now at risk of breaching. Following the acquisition, El Paso Water discovered significant structural issues with the dam and is currently draining the reservoir to prevent potential flooding. Nearby businesses, including Rosa’s Cantina, have temporarily closed as a precaution, and a flash flood watch has been issued for surrounding areas. The dam, categorized as low-hazard, has not been inspected since 1996 and poses a risk of minor property damage in the event of failure.

Key Details: • Cement Lake property acquired for $4 million in December 2025. • Dam built in 1909; last inspected in 1996. • Flash flood watch issued for Paisano Drive and Loop 375. • Nearby businesses closed due to flooding concerns.

public-safety flooding el-paso-water cement lake dam-safety

People & Organizations

Texas Commission on Environmental QualityLoop 375Upper ValleyTexas Department of TransportationEl Paso WaterPaisano DriveCement Lake

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