The City of Las Cruces values our history and culture and encourages those who are repairing or rehabilitating their own historic properties to do so in a way that protects the integrity of the property.
About the Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission plays a key role in protecting and preserving our city’s rich history. The commission evaluates and guides the city’s historic preservation efforts, ensuring that culturally significant properties—whether local, state, or nationally recognized—are thoughtfully considered.
Key responsibilities include:
- Reviewing and making recommendations on proposed changes to historic properties through the Certificate of Appropriateness process.
- Advising city leaders on policies and best practices for preserving historic sites.
- Working closely with the Historic Preservation Specialist to stay informed about ongoing research, preservation planning, and efforts to document and protect historic places.
The commission also provides guidance to the City Council and staff on additional preservation policies and procedures as needed.
Meeting scheduled
The HPC meets at 6 p.m. on third Wednesday of every month in City Hall Lerdo Room (2007B)
Link to HPC agendas: https://lascruces.gov/multimedia-center/agenda-center/
Benefits of Historic Preservation
The recent rehabilitation projects at the Rio Grande Theatre, Phillips Chapel, and Nestor Armijo house, are excellent examples of the community benefits of historic preservation, including:
- Enhanced civic pride and neighborhood identity
- The marketable commercial value of historic properties and district
- Recognition that the accomplishments and challenges faced by earlier residents may be relevant now and, in the future,
- Stabilized, and in some cases, increased, property values
- Unique and engaging sites or districts for visitors to appreciate and enjoy
Historic Buildings in Las Cruces
The vast majority of historic properties are located downtown or the Mesquite, Alameda Depot, and Mesilla Park Historic Districts. Over 1,000 buildings and structures are listed on the State Register of Cultural Properties or the National Register of Historic Places.
Resources
- City of Las Cruces Historic Preservation Ad Hoc Committee
- Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Historic Preservation
- New Mexico Office of Cultural Affairs Historic Preservation Division (HPD)
- Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program
- Preservation Directory
- National Trust for Historic Preservation