Las Cruces and Doña Ana County have been allocated $11 million for housing projects as part of a broader $120 million initiative across New Mexico. This funding, announced by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, is intended to address housing shortages and homelessness in the state. The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions’ Office of Housing will manage the distribution of these funds.
Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of housing security, stating, "A home offers security, hope and the chance to put dreams about the future into action." She added that these investments demonstrate New Mexico's commitment to ending homelessness and providing families with stable housing.
Secretary Sarita Nair from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions noted that the projects in Las Cruces reflect diverse strategies to tackle the state's housing crisis. These include expanding affordable housing options and supporting landlords who accept housing vouchers.
The 2025 Housing New Mexico Housing Needs Analysis highlights a significant demand for more housing options statewide. It notes that only 13.5% of residents can afford a median-priced home at $345,000 with current interest rates. Renters face even greater challenges, with 76.6% earning less than $50,000 annually being cost-burdened.
Representative Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces) highlighted the critical nature of stable housing for family stability and community well-being. He expressed gratitude for the progress on new projects that will benefit families in Southern New Mexico.
Johana Bencomo, mayor pro tem and city councilor for District 4, expressed appreciation for the collaboration among legislators and community partners in securing this investment. She said that it would help ensure more people in Las Cruces have access to secure homes.
Several specific projects are planned:
- Arcadia 4 Subdivision will receive $3.25 million to build 52 single-family homes aimed at households earning up to 120% of Area Median Income (AMI). The project involves Mesilla Valley Habitat for Humanity and Tierra del Sol Housing Corporation.
- Peachtree Canyon Apartments Phase I is allocated $4.3 million for 144 rental units targeting low- and moderate-income households earning up to 60% AMI.
- Pedrena Senior Apartments will use $400,000 to develop an 80-unit complex for seniors aged 55+, featuring affordable rentals with supportive community spaces.
- Skylark Subdivision receives $1.4 million for 32 single-family homes targeted at households up to 120% AMI.
- Amador Crossing is awarded $1.725 million for a 50-unit complex offering transitional housing with supportive services.
- The Landlord Risk Mitigation Program continues with $100,000 funding through Mesilla Valley Community of Hope (MVCH), helping vulnerable populations access rental housing by reducing financial risks for landlords.
These initiatives are part of a concerted effort by local organizations like Mesilla Valley Community of Hope and others to provide sustainable solutions for affordable housing in Las Cruces.
Information from this article can be found here.
