The Gila National Forest, in partnership with Bat Conservation International and Fowler Brothers Construction, will complete critical road repairs on National Forest System Road 150 (“North Star Road”) near Diamond Creek in late April and early May. The project will upgrade a 1.7-mile segment of the roadway between mileposts 33 and 35, just north of Diamond Creek. Planned improvements include the installation of new culverts and drainage features, road widening, the addition of durable surfacing, and enhanced stormwater drainage and management to improve safety and long-term road conditions.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation, in partnership with the City of Deming, the Village of Columbus, Luna County, the New Mexico Border Authority, and the Southwest New Mexico Council of Governments, is advancing an update to the NM 11 Corridor Study. Continued regional growth, increased freight movement, and recent improvements at the port of entry have underscored the need to reassess future transportation needs along the corridor. Community input will play a key role in shaping the next phase, and public comments are currently being accepted through the Luna County website.
At its regular meeting, the Hidalgo County Commission directed staff to begin negotiating potential purchase agreements for Foster Draw Road and Cloverdale Road, contingent upon completion of the road vacation process and improvements to public access along Geronimo Trail to Battalion Road. In other business, state legislators provided an update highlighting approximately $2.95 million in funding for local projects, and the commission approved the use of Operation Stonegarden funds for law enforcement equipment. Several proclamations were also issued recognizing April as Autism Awareness, Child Abuse Awareness, and Sexual Assault Awareness months.
In Catron County news:
A funding request has been submitted to the House Committee on Appropriations through Representative Gabe Vasquez seeking $1.5 million for Fiscal Year 2027 to support the Catron County Mobile Rock Crusher and Dozer project. The funding would enable Catron County, based in Reserve, to purchase heavy equipment to improve and maintain rural roadways, enhancing safety and access for residents, first responders, school transportation, and visitors.
