The Gila Community Foundation (GCF) announces the successful completion of the 2025 Southline Community Investment Program (SCIP) grant cycle, which is set to provide funding for projects in Grant, Luna, and Hidalgo counties that address critical community needs. Priority focus areas included food insecurity, senior services, emergency and essential community services, animal welfare and veterinary clinics, and community health and wellbeing. As a result of this process, a total of $84,500 was awarded to organizations in Grant County, $42,500 to Luna County awardees, and $17,500 to Hidalgo County recipients.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) is seeking public input for the U.S. 180 Corridor Safety Scoping Project to better understand local concerns and identify safety priorities within the corridor. The project evaluates safety issues affecting motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians, and explores potential solutions to improve traffic operations and reduce hazards along U.S. 180 between milepost 111 west of Silver City and milepost 123 in Bayard. Public feedback may be submitted online at website or through the other methods outlined on the website. The comment period will remain open through January 31.
During a recent Hidalgo County Commission meeting, commissioners discussed the construction of a border wall across the southern portion of the county, which is expected to bring much-needed revenue to Hidalgo County. The $2.4 billion project will include a 30-foot-high, climb-resistant metal wall equipped with lighting and sensory detection systems, as well as a second 30-foot-high parallel wall featuring a roadway for U.S. Border Patrol use along the fenceline. Construction for the project is scheduled to begin in January, with completion anticipated by August 2028.
In New Mexico news:
The New Mexico Health Care Authority is reminding Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries of an important eligibility requirement change set to take effect in 2026. Beginning January 1, more than 55,000 New Mexicans will be required to work, volunteer, or participate in approved training programs for at least 80 hours per month in order to continue receiving SNAP benefits. The requirement applies to individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 who are mentally and physically able to work and who are not responsible for the care of a child under the age of 14. Certain exceptions to the rule apply, and SNAP recipients are encouraged to contact their local Health Care Authority office for additional information.
