AIA El Paso declares October a month of architecture and public events

The El Paso City Council proclaimed October as a month to celebrate architecture and design, recognizing the American Institute of Architects El Paso chapter for its role in historic preservation, urban planning and energy‑efficient design. Representative Fierro read the proclamation and Mayor Renard Johnson signed it on the council chamber dais.

John Reyes, president of AIA El Paso, told the council the month will include walking tours, hands‑on events and lectures. “Our members invite the community to a month long celebration of architecture and design,” Reyes said, highlighting partnerships with La Nube Children’s Museum and the history museum and a walking tour of work by architect Mabel Welch. He said the state architects conference, which drew roughly 1,200 attendees when hosted here previously, will return to El Paso next year.

The proclamation frames the events as opportunities to “engage with architects and design through tours, hands on experience, open studios, workshops, conversations, lectures, and community gatherings,” and the chapter encouraged residents to visit aiaelpaso.org for details. Councilmembers congratulated AIA members for their contributions to downtown and city planning.

The recognition was ceremonial and does not carry regulatory effect; it is intended to promote public engagement with local design and preservation work.