The City of Las Cruces is continuing its efforts to update the Downtown Master Plan, which guides the development and growth of the city’s central district. The plan, first adopted in the early 2000s and last updated in 2016, has played a key role in downtown revitalization over the past decade. The current update aims to refine strategies based on recent changes and ongoing needs.
Public engagement activities have been underway this week, organized by the City in partnership with planning consultant PlaceMakers. On Monday, a workshop brought together residents, business owners, civic organizations, and City staff for focused meetings and design sessions related to the Downtown Master Plan update. Additional opportunities for community participation are scheduled for Wednesday and Friday.
Chris Faivre, Community Development Director, said, “This update isn’t about starting over. It’s about fine-tuning what we’ve already achieved and ensuring downtown continues to reflect the needs and character of Las Cruces.”
The planning team is meeting with various stakeholder groups—including local businesses, neighborhood associations, community partnerships, and boards—to gather insight into current conditions and future priorities.
An Open House will be held Wednesday, October 22, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Amador Live, 302 S. Main Street. Community members can view draft concepts, speak with the planning team, and provide feedback.
A Closing Presentation is scheduled for Friday, October 24, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Las Cruces City Hall Council Chambers, 700 N. Main Street. This event will summarize findings from the week and outline how they will inform the next phase of the Downtown Master Plan Update.
The Downtown Master Plan acts as a blueprint for continued investment and vitality in downtown Las Cruces. It guides decisions about land use, design, mobility, and economic development to ensure downtown remains an attractive destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.
The 2025 update will emphasize potential catalyst projects, improved connections with nearby neighborhoods, and lessons learned since the last update in 2016.
For more information about the plan and opportunities for public involvement, visit LasCruces.gov/DowntownPlan.
Other city initiatives include inviting proposals from qualified businesses and organizations to reimagine and operate the Amador Live venue through a public-private partnership. Details are available on the city’s website: https://www.lascruces.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=14445
Las Cruces Utilities is also developing a plan for the future of natural gas usage in homes and businesses across the city. More information can be found here: https://www.lascruces.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=14395
Additionally, starting July 1, 2025, updated Location Codes will be required when filing taxes on the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department’s TAP Portal. More details are provided by the department: https://www.tax.newmexico.gov/news/2024/04/17/location-codes-changing-for-gross-receipts-tax-filers/
Residents are encouraged to participate in these and other city initiatives to help shape future developments.
