Good morning, this is El Paso Local Pulse for June 20, 2025.

We start today with a look at our weather. The Borderland is still in the grip of a major heatwave, with temperatures expected to hit between 104 and 106 degrees this afternoon. We need to stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities, especially as monsoon season is just kicking off. Keep an umbrella nearby as the beginning of next week may bring heavy thunderstorms, a welcome relief for those battling the nearby wildfires and a much-needed break for our dry landscapes.

Turning to our roads, construction continues to be a daily reality. On the west side, North Desert between Mesa and Medano remains closed overnight with detours sending traffic along Doniphan and Artcraft. Expect lane closures around Redd, Anthony, and the Gateway Boulevards near Zaragoza as crews work on everything from electrical systems to concrete repairs. Some closures will carry on through tomorrow, so budget extra drive time, especially during peak hours.

From City Hall, all city offices, along with county offices, were closed yesterday for Juneteenth but have reopened this morning. This week’s council meeting highlighted a new investment in our furry friends, with District 5 approving funds for pet pantries at local libraries. These will include microchip scanners and supplies, aiming to promote a healthier, more pet-friendly community.

Big news from the El Paso Independent School District: the board has approved a $547 million budget for the next school year, which includes raises for teachers and other staff like librarians and nurses. The projected deficit is now down to about 6 million dollars, a steep drop from last fall’s 32 million. Board leaders are optimistic that with higher attendance and potential property sales, the district could even reach a balanced budget by year’s end. Our financial outlook is among the healthiest of Texas’s large districts, lending some peace of mind as we head into summer.

On the real estate front, activity remains steady but tight, with many families watching for market shifts as monsoon rains might affect some open houses and outdoor showings. Meanwhile, local businesses keep moving—while some small shops downtown have quietly closed, a new coffee house is opening this weekend on Mesa Street, promising live music and fresh pastries.

In community events, we’re looking forward to the Plaza Theatre’s summer music series kicking off this Friday evening, and Sunday’s Juneteenth parade will now go forward after yesterday’s observance day. Make sure to check out local farmers markets popping up at Memorial Park and Sunland Park Mall this weekend.

On the sports side, our high school baseball teams closed out the season with strong showings—special congratulations to Austin High, whose varsity team advanced to the regional semifinals. And a quick shout-out to Bowie Middle School’s robotics squad, who just took top honors at a statewide competition.

As for public safety, El Paso remains mostly quiet, but police continue to monitor the border closely as migrant crossings rise with the heat. Advocates are calling on both local leaders and residents for continued compassion and vigilance.

And to wrap up, a feel-good story: a local retired veteran celebrated his 100th birthday this week, with neighbors lining Rim Road for a surprise car parade. His words to the community: stay kind and look out for one another.

This has been El Paso Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI