Public is invited to a ribbon cutting for the NM 101/University Avenue improvement project

LAS CRUCES – A major $22 million investment aimed at improving safety, traffic flow and long-term mobility in southern New Mexico will be celebrated during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the NM 101/University Avenue Improvement Project on Thursday, May 28, at 10:30 a.m. at Zia Middle School, 1300 NM 101, in Las Cruces.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation, in partnership with local leaders and project stakeholders, will commemorate the multi-modal infrastructure project that transformed this corridor serving residents, businesses, schools and commuters in the Mesilla and Las Cruces area.

Speakers for the event will include Acting Cabinet Secretary David Quintana, P.E., Town of Mesilla Mayor Russell Hernandez, and M.C. District Engineer Aaron Chavarria, P.E.

“This project reflects what can be accomplished when state agencies, local governments and contractors work together with a shared vision,” said District Engineer Aaron Chavarria, P.E. “The NM 101 improvements will provide safer and more efficient travel for motorists, students and families who use this corridor every day.”

The NM 101/University Avenue project was completed in partnership with La Calerita Construction, LLC, and included roadway reconstruction, safety enhancements, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, drainage improvements, and utility upgrades designed to improve travel for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists throughout the corridor.

Officials from NMDOT, local governments and community partners are expected to attend the ceremony. Remarks will be followed by an official ribbon cutting recognizing the completion of the project and the collaborative efforts that made it possible.

For more information, contact the NMDOT District One Public Information Officer, Ami Evans at 575-640-5981 or ami.evans@dot.nm.gov.