Montecillo is a unique planned community in El Paso, built with an innovative approach to urban planning. Touted as El Paso’s first “SmartCode” community, Montecillo aims to create a walkable, mixed-use environment that promotes community interaction and sustainable living.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Montecillo, digging into its urban design, residential options, amenities, and the experiences of those who call it home. We’ll explore what makes Montecillo different and what it offers its residents.
Montecillo has received mixed reviews, and it’s important for potential residents to make informed decisions. We’ll look at some of the pros and cons of living in Montecillo so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Smart Urban Living and Community Design
Montecillo is designed around the principles of the SmartCode, a model zoning template that prioritizes sustainable urban development. But what does that mean, exactly?
SmartCode Community
SmartCode is all about reducing urban sprawl and promoting walkable neighborhoods by creating a community where you can live, work, and play without getting in a car.
Montecillo embodies these principles by creating a space where residential areas blend seamlessly with retail shops and office spaces.
Urban Planning and Design
The urban planning and design of Montecillo emphasize a mix of residential, retail, and office spaces, creating a community where people can live, work, and play. Public spaces and pedestrian-friendly environments encourage residents to get out and connect with their neighbors.
Montecillo also supports intelligent transportation, making it easy to get around without a car.
Residential Options: Living in Montecillo
Montecillo offers a wide range of living options, from apartments and townhouses to single-family homes. Whether you’re looking for a compact studio or a spacious three-bedroom apartment, you’ll likely find it here.
Several rental communities dot the landscape, including Montecillo Living, a large complex with 976 units spread across four stories.
Pricing and Lease Options
Apartment rents in Montecillo range from around $1,200 to $3,000 per month, depending on the size and amenities of the unit. You can find everything from basic, budget-friendly options to fully upgraded luxury apartments.
Lease options are also flexible, with most communities offering standard 6- to 12-month leases. If you need something shorter-term, you might be able to find a shorter lease, although those tend to be pricier. For those who need a temporary home away from home, fully furnished corporate luxury apartments are available, too.
Amenities and Services: Enhancing the Resident Experience
Montecillo offers a wide array of amenities designed to enrich the lives of its residents.
Community Amenities
Residents can enjoy a variety of community amenities, including a swim club, fitness center, clubhouse, rooftop terrace, and a theater. There are multiple pools where you can cool off on a hot day. The on-site fitness center is a spacious 5,000 square feet, offering plenty of room for workouts.
Montecillo is a pet-friendly community! There are some restrictions, however. There are pet fees and deposits, and weight limits may apply. Check with the leasing office for complete details.
Property Services
Montecillo goes beyond the basics to provide convenient property services. You’ll find plenty of parking options, with surface lots and street parking available. Covered parking is available for a monthly fee of $50-$51, and garage parking is offered at $100-$115 per month.
For extra storage, you can rent small and large units for $60-$70 per month.
Resident Reviews and Property Management
Tenant reviews of Montecillo apartments are definitely a mixed bag. Some residents love the location and the amenities, while others have had less-than-stellar experiences. It’s worth taking a look at what people are saying before you decide to rent there.
Some of the more common complaints revolve around maintenance issues. Some tenants say they’ve struggled to get things fixed in a timely manner. Others mention that staff responsiveness can be hit or miss. Security is another concern that pops up in online reviews.
Then there’s the question of value. Some residents feel that the price they’re paying doesn’t quite match the quality of the apartments or the level of service they receive.
If you’re thinking about moving to Montecillo, it’s a good idea to dig a little deeper into the property management company. Read through the tenant reviews carefully before you sign a lease. It could save you some headaches down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Montecillo mean?
The name “Montecillo” is derived from the Spanish words “monte” (hill) and “cillo” (small). Therefore, Montecillo roughly translates to “small hill.” This likely refers to the location of the winery and vineyards, nestled on a small hillside in the Rioja region of Spain.
Where is Montecillo wine made?
Montecillo wine is exclusively produced in the Rioja Alta subregion of Rioja, Spain. This area is renowned for its high-quality Tempranillo grapes and traditional winemaking techniques. The winery itself is located in Fuenmayor, a historic town in the heart of Rioja Alta.
Is Montecillo a dry wine?
Yes, generally speaking, Montecillo wines are considered dry. Particularly their Crianza, Reserva, and Gran Reserva offerings. These wines undergo a complete fermentation process, converting almost all the grape sugars into alcohol, resulting in a dry taste profile. Some of their younger, less aged wines might exhibit slightly more fruitiness, but they are still predominantly dry.
Is Montecillo wine good?
That’s subjective, of course, but Montecillo has a long and respected history in Rioja. They’re known for producing consistent, well-made wines, particularly their aged Reservas and Gran Reservas. They offer a good balance of fruit, oak, and earthy notes, making them a popular choice among Rioja enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether you’ll enjoy it depends on your personal preferences, but it’s definitely worth a try if you’re exploring Rioja wines.
To Conclude
Montecillo is an urban village in West El Paso that stands out for its new urbanist SmartCode design, a mix of residential options, and various amenities intended to foster a strong sense of community.
While some residents rave about the lifestyle and location, others have voiced concerns about the developer, HOA policies, or the quality of construction. It’s important to weigh all factors before deciding whether Montecillo is the right place for you.
Ultimately, Montecillo offers a unique, modern living experience, but careful consideration and research are essential before making it your home.