Regional Sandbag Distribution Sites Open June 21

Regional distribution site at Nations Tobin Park.

El Pasoans can get sandbags at regional sandbag distribution sites between June 21 and Sept. 17. The sites will be open Monday through Friday from 2 to 8 p.m. El Pasoans in flood-prone areas are encouraged to be proactive by obtaining sandbags before summer rains begin.

The regional distribution sites are:

• Blackie Chesher Park, 9144 Escobar Drive
• Album Park, Lockerbie and Wedgewood
• Nations Tobin Park, 8831 Railroad Drive
• 120 Kappa Road, adjacent to Keystone Heritage Park

Prior to 2009, sandbags were distributed through local fire stations. However, the stations did not have sufficient space to store large quantities of sandbags, and they sometimes ran out quickly during severe rain events. Thousands of bags are stored at each regional distribution site.

“The new distribution system worked very well,” said Stormwater Operations Manager Jose Luis Sierra. “We were very satisfied with the outcome, especially with it being our first year with this new system. There were always plenty of bags in stock, unlike previous years. We never had any complaints about not having enough bags.”

While the regional sites operate only during the monsoon season, sandbags are available throughout the year at the Stormwater Operations Center, 410 S. Cotton St. El Paso residents can get sandbags at the Cotton Street location from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.

There is limit of 25 sandbags per visit at each location, and persons who cannot lift heavy items are encouraged to come with someone who can assist with loading and unloading the bags.