W. Picacho & Motel Boulevard MRA

The City of Las Cruces has adopted a plan to reimagine and revitalize the neighborhoods surrounding the West Picacho and Motel Boulevard corridors. This initiative represents a pivotal opportunity to transform these areas into vibrant, pedestrian-friendly communities with a focus on sustainable and equitable growth. The plan extends beyond improving commercial and retail spaces, embracing a holistic approach to urban renewal that prioritizes affordable and multi-family housing, infrastructure enhancements, environmental sustainability, social equity, historic preservation, and the health and safety of the community.

W. Picacho & Motel Boulevard MRA Map Boundaries

Tashiro Dr and McClure Rd to the north, Rio Grande River to the west, W. Hadley Ave to the south, and train tracks to the east.

Catalytic & Existing Projects

Catalytic projects are high-impact initiatives identified for prioritization by the City, as they have the potential to stimulate and attract future private investment and redevelopment. In contrast, existing projects refer to those already underway within the MRA area, including active Capital Improvement Projects and other initiatives being implemented by various City departments.

Explore the full list of W. Picacho & Motel Blvd. Catalytic and Existing Projects, along with their progress, through the Envisio Dashboard.

Key Actions & New Projects

To help the City prioritize and advance key strategies within the MRA, a series of Key Actions has been developed. These Key Actions represent strategic, implementation-focused steps designed to achieve the overall vision of the MRA plan. Each action is organized by theme to guide coordination and execution across departments. As new projects are identified that align with the MRA plan, they will be incorporated into these Key Actions and tracked and reported on accordingly.

Explore the full list of W. Picacho & Motel Blvd. Key Actions and New Projects, along with their progress, through the Envisio Dashboard.

New Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) Business Tax Codes Starting July 1, 2025, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department is implementing updated Location Codes for businesses filing Gross Receipts Tax through the TAP Portal.

APPLICATION OPENS JULY 1, 2026!

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Small Business Safety Improvement Grant Program will expand to include businesses and commercial property owners within the W. Picacho & Motel Blvd MRA.

Eligible independently owned businesses and qualifying nonprofits with 40 or fewer full-time employees may apply for reimbursement of up to $5,000 for eligible security improvements, including security cameras, locks and doors, sensors, outdoor lighting, and fencing. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

This is a reimbursement-based program. To be eligible, expenses must be incurred on or after July 1, 2026. Expenses incurred prior to July 1, 2026, not eligible for reimbursement.

In partnership with the Las Cruces Police Department, the program also provides free Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessments, on-site safety evaluations, prevention recommendations, and community safety resources.

Learn more about eligibility requirements and apply beginning July 1.

For more information on Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas, please contact Blairre Flores, Economic Development Coordinator, at [email protected] or 575-528-3048.