Ross Eastlake is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of El Paso, Texas. Established in the early 1900s, the neighborhood retains its original charm with tree-lined streets, beautiful Victorian homes, and historic churches.
Due to its architectural significance and historical roots, the Ross Eastlake neighborhood was designated as a National Register Historic District in 1980. The district includes over 450 contributing buildings, mostly representing the Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman architectural styles.
Ross Eastlake is not just a historic neighborhood; it is also a thriving community with an active neighborhood association, dedicated residents, and a variety of local amenities. Let’s explore some of the highlights:
Ross Eastlake El Paso
Ross Eastlake is a historic neighborhood in El Paso, Texas, known for its architectural beauty and community spirit.
- National Register Historic District
- Victorian, Colonial Revival, Craftsman homes
- Tree-lined streets
- Active neighborhood association
- Community events
- Local businesses
- Walking distance to downtown
- University of Texas at El Paso nearby
- Hospitals and medical facilities in vicinity
- Strong sense of community
Ross Eastlake truly embodies the charm and character of El Paso’s past while offering the conveniences and amenities of modern living.
National Register District
The Ross East neighborhood was designated as a National Register District in 1980, recognizing its historical significance and architectural integrity.
The district encompasses over 450 buildings, primarily representing Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman architectural styles. These homes are well-preserved and contribute to the neighborhood’s unique character.
The designation as a National Register District provides certain protections and incentives for property owners within the district. For example, any alterations or renovations to historic buildings must be approved by the local historic preservation commission to ensure they are compatible with the district’s character.
The National Register District status also makes Ross East eligible for various grants and tax incentives that support preservation efforts. This helps to ensure the neighborhood’s historic character is maintained for future generations.
The Ross East National Register District is a testament to the neighborhood’s rich history and architectural heritage. It is a vibrant community that values its past while embracing the present and looking forward to the future.
Victorian, Colonial Revival, Craftsman Homes
The homes in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood are predominantly Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman in style, reflecting the architectural tastes of the early 1900s.
Victorian homes are known for their elaborate ornamentation, including gingerbread trim, bay windows, and decorative porches. They often feature steeply pitched roofs and asymmetrical facades.
Colonial Revival homes are inspired by the архитектурные стили of the American colonial period. They typically have symmetrical facades, центральное крыльцоs, and simple, clean lines.
Craftsman homes emphasize natural materials and simplicity of form. They often have exposed beams, built-in cabinetry, and широкие крыльцоs. The roofs are typically low-pitched and gabled.
The variety of architectural styles in Ross Eastlake contributes to the neighborhood’s visual interest and charm. These homes are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail that was prevalent during the early 20th century.
Today, the Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes in Ross Eastlake are highly sought after for their architectural beauty and historical significance. Many of these homes have been lovingly restored and updated to meet the needs of modern living while preserving their original character.
Tree-lined Streets
One of the most striking features of the Ross Eastlake neighborhood is its abundance of mature trees, which line the streets and provide a canopy of shade and beauty.
The trees in Ross Eastlake are a diverse mix of species, including elms, oaks, pecans, and ash trees. These trees provide numerous benefits to the neighborhood, including:
- Improved air quality: Trees absorb pollutants and release oxygen, helping to improve the air quality in the neighborhood.
- Reduced stormwater runoff: Trees help to absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff and flooding.
- Energy savings: Trees provide shade in the summer, which can help to reduce energy costs for cooling homes.
- Increased property values: Studies have shown that homes in tree-lined neighborhoods tend to have higher property values.
Beyond their practical benefits, the trees in Ross Eastlake also contribute to the neighborhood’s aesthetic appeal and sense of place. The mature trees create a serene and inviting atmosphere, making it a pleasure to walk or bike through the neighborhood.
The Ross Eastlake neighborhood association is committed to preserving and enhancing the tree canopy. They regularly plant new trees and work to maintain the existing ones. As a result, the neighborhood’s tree-lined streets continue to be a defining feature and a source of pride for residents.
Active Neighborhood Association
The Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association (RENA) is a vital and active organization that plays a key role in the neighborhood’s livability and sense of community.
RENA is a volunteer-run organization that works to:
- Preserve and enhance the neighborhood’s historic character
- Promote community involvement and events
- Advocate for the needs of residents
- Maintain the neighborhood’s tree canopy
- Organize neighborhood clean-ups and beautification projects
RENA is open to all residents of the Ross Eastlake neighborhood. The association holds regular meetings, organizes social events, and publishes a quarterly newsletter to keep residents informed about neighborhood news and upcoming events.
Through its various initiatives and activities, RENA fosters a strong sense of community and pride in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood. The association’s dedication to preserving the neighborhood’s historic character while embracing the present has contributed to the neighborhood’s enduring popularity.
The Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association is a shining example of how active and engaged residents can make a positive impact on their community. Through their hard work and dedication, RENA has helped to make Ross Eastlake one of the most desirable neighborhoods in El Paso.
Community Events
The Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association (RENA) organizes a variety of community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and bringing neighbors together.
Some of the most popular community events include:
- Annual Home Tour: This event showcases the neighborhood’s beautiful historic homes and architecture.
- Holiday Party: Residents gather for a festive holiday party featuring music, food, and activities for children.
- National Night Out: This annual event promotes community safety and crime prevention.
- Neighborhood Cleanup: Residents come together to clean up the neighborhood and keep it looking its best.
- Movie Nights in the Park: During the summer months, RENA hosts free movie nights in the neighborhood park.
These community events provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other, celebrate the neighborhood’s history and culture, and work together to make Ross Eastlake a better place to live.
In addition to these organized events, the Ross Eastlake neighborhood is also home to a number of informal gatherings and social activities. Residents often gather in the park, at local restaurants, or on each other’s porches to socialize and enjoy the neighborhood’s friendly atmosphere.
The strong sense of community in Ross Eastlake is evident in the abundance of community events and activities. These events not only provide entertainment and social opportunities but also help to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging among residents.
Local Businesses
Ross Eastlake is home to a variety of local businesses that contribute to the neighborhood’s vibrant and diverse character.
Some of the most popular local businesses include:
- The Coffee Box: A cozy coffee shop that serves locally roasted coffee and pastries.
- The Book Stop: An independent bookstore that specializes in used and rare books.
- The Mission Trail Ice Cream Shop: A family-owned ice cream shop that serves homemade ice cream and desserts.
- The Ross Eastlake Pharmacy: A locally owned and operated pharmacy that provides a wide range of services.
- The El Paso Yoga Studio: A yoga studio that offers a variety of yoga classes for all levels.
These local businesses are an important part of the Ross Eastlake community. They provide essential services, create jobs, and contribute to the neighborhood’s unique identity.
In addition to these established businesses, Ross Eastlake is also home to a number of home-based businesses and entrepreneurs. These businesses offer a variety of products and services, from handmade crafts to consulting services.
The presence of local businesses in Ross Eastlake helps to create a sense of place and community. Residents can shop, dine, and socialize at local businesses, knowing that they are supporting their neighbors and contributing to the local economy.
Walking Distance to Downtown
Ross Eastlake is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown El Paso. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy all that downtown has to offer, including:
- Shopping and dining: Downtown El Paso is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Cultural attractions: Downtown is home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries.
- Sporting events: Downtown is home to the El Paso Chihuahuas minor league baseball team and the El Paso Locomotive FC soccer team.
- Nightlife: Downtown is home to a variety of bars and nightclubs.
- Employment opportunities: Many of El Paso’s major employers are located downtown.
The walkability of Ross Eastlake is a major perk for residents. It allows them to enjoy the convenience of urban living without having to sacrifice the charm and character of a historic neighborhood.
In addition to being close to downtown, Ross Eastlake is also within walking distance of several other popular destinations, including the University of Texas at El Paso, the El Paso Zoo, and the El Paso Museum of Art.
The walkability of Ross Eastlake makes it a great choice for people who want to live an active and engaged lifestyle. Residents can easily walk to work, school, or entertainment venues, reducing their reliance on cars and contributing to a healthier and more sustainable community.
University of Texas at El Paso Nearby
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) is located just a short walk from the Ross Eastlake neighborhood.
- Proximity: The close proximity of UTEP to Ross Eastlake makes it a convenient choice for students, faculty, and staff.
- Educational opportunities: UTEP offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, providing residents with access to higher education.
- Cultural enrichment: UTEP is home to several museums and art galleries, which are open to the public. The university also hosts a variety of cultural events, such as concerts, lectures, and film screenings.
- Economic benefits: UTEP is a major employer in the El Paso region and contributes to the local economy.
The presence of UTEP in close proximity to Ross Eastlake is a major benefit for the neighborhood. It provides residents with access to educational opportunities, cultural enrichment, and economic benefits.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities in Vicinity
Ross Eastlake is located in close proximity to several major hospitals and medical facilities, providing residents with convenient access to healthcare services.
- University Medical Center of El Paso: This Level I trauma center is the largest hospital in El Paso and provides a full range of medical and surgical services.
- El Paso Children’s Hospital: This hospital is dedicated to providing specialized care for children.
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso: This academic medical center offers a variety of medical and surgical services, as well as research and educational programs.
- William Beaumont Army Medical Center: This military hospital provides a full range of medical and surgical services to active duty military personnel, retirees, and their families.
The proximity of these hospitals and medical facilities to Ross Eastlake is a major benefit for residents, ensuring that they have access to high-quality healthcare services when they need them.
Strong Sense of Community
One of the most distinctive features of the Ross Eastlake neighborhood is its strong sense of community.
This sense of community is fostered by a number of factors, including:
- Active neighborhood association: The Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association (RENA) is a volunteer-run organization that works to preserve the neighborhood’s historic character, promote community involvement, and advocate for the needs of residents.
- Community events: RENA organizes a variety of community events throughout the year, such as the annual Home Tour, Holiday Party, and National Night Out. These events provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other and build relationships.
- Local businesses: Ross Eastlake is home to a number of local businesses that contribute to the neighborhood’s sense of place and community. Residents can shop, dine, and socialize at local businesses, knowing that they are supporting their neighbors and contributing to the local economy.
- Walkability: The walkability of Ross Eastlake encourages residents to interact with each other and build relationships. Residents can easily walk to the park, local businesses, and community events, creating opportunities for spontaneous encounters and conversations.
The strong sense of community in Ross Eastlake is evident in the neighborhood’s friendly atmosphere, the involvement of residents in local organizations, and the willingness of neighbors to help each other out.
The strong sense of community in Ross Eastlake is one of its greatest assets. It makes the neighborhood a desirable place to live and contributes to the overall quality of life for residents.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Ross Eastlake neighborhood in El Paso, Texas:
Question 1: What is the Ross Eastlake neighborhood like?
Answer 1: Ross Eastlake is a historic neighborhood located in the heart of El Paso. It is known for its beautiful Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes, its tree-lined streets, and its strong sense of community.
Question 2: Is Ross Eastlake a safe neighborhood?
Answer 2: Yes, Ross Eastlake is generally considered to be a safe neighborhood. The El Paso Police Department has a substation located in the neighborhood, and residents are actively involved in neighborhood watch programs.
Question 3: What are the schools in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood?
Answer 3: Ross Eastlake is served by the El Paso Independent School District. The neighborhood schools are Ross Elementary School, Burges High School, and the University of Texas at El Paso.
Question 4: What are the property taxes in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood?
Answer 4: Property taxes in Ross Eastlake vary depending on the size and value of the property. However, the neighborhood generally has lower property taxes than other parts of El Paso.
Question 5: Is the Ross Eastlake neighborhood walkable?
Answer 5: Yes, Ross Eastlake is a very walkable neighborhood. The neighborhood is close to downtown El Paso, the University of Texas at El Paso, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Question 6: Are there any historic landmarks in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood?
Answer 6: Yes, the Ross Eastlake neighborhood is designated as a National Register Historic District. The neighborhood is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the El Paso Museum of Art and the El Paso Public Library.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Ross Eastlake neighborhood. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact the Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association.
In addition to the FAQ, here are a few tips for living in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood:
Tips
Here are a few tips for living in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood in El Paso, Texas:
Tip 1: Get involved in the community. One of the best ways to enjoy living in Ross Eastlake is to get involved in the community. There are a number of ways to do this, such as joining the Ross Eastlake Neighborhood Association, volunteering for a local organization, or attending community events.
Tip 2: Take advantage of the neighborhood’s walkability. Ross Eastlake is a very walkable neighborhood, so take advantage of it! Walk to the park, to local businesses, or to community events. You’ll get some exercise and enjoy the neighborhood’s beautiful scenery at the same time.
Tip 3: Support local businesses. Ross Eastlake is home to a number of local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and service providers. Supporting local businesses helps to keep the neighborhood vibrant and unique.
Tip 4: Preserve the neighborhood’s historic character. Ross Eastlake is a historic neighborhood, so it’s important to preserve its historic character. This means being mindful of the neighborhood’s architectural guidelines and taking care to maintain the neighborhood’s historic homes.
By following these tips, you can help to make Ross Eastlake an even better place to live.
Whether you are a long-time resident or a new homeowner, we hope you enjoy living in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood!
Conclusion
The Ross Eastlake neighborhood in El Paso, Texas is a historic and vibrant community with a strong sense of place. The neighborhood’s beautiful Victorian, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes, its tree-lined streets, and its active neighborhood association all contribute to its unique character and charm.
Ross Eastlake is also a convenient and desirable place to live. The neighborhood is within walking distance of downtown El Paso, the University of Texas at El Paso, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It is also close to several major hospitals and medical facilities.
Whether you are a long-time resident or a new homeowner, we hope you enjoy living in the Ross Eastlake neighborhood! The neighborhood’s strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its historic character make it a special place to call home.