On Monday, Sept. 22, the City of Las Vegas completed construction of a new 1.5-mile nature trail at Rodriguez Park. The project was funded in part by a $99,999 Outdoor Recreation Trails Grant, awarded through the Economic Development Department and the Outdoor Recreation Division. The grant proposal was developed collaboratively by Robert Archuleta of Arch Consulting, LLC, and the North Central New Mexico Economic Development District (NCNMEDD). In addition to the grant, the City contributed $17,000 in funding and provided in-kind services, with the combined local contribution totaling approximately $50,000 to bring the trail to completion. The new nature trail is designed to enhance recreational opportunities for both residents and visitors, encouraging outdoor activity and a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural beauty. Winding westward into the mountains, the trail offers a quiet, scenic environment where users may encounter local wildlife such as birds, deer, and elk. Visitors are reminded to observe wildlife from a safe distance and help preserve the area by keeping the trail clean and undisturbed. Construction began earlier this summer. As part of the City’s in-kind contribution, Public Works Director Arnold Lopez operated heavy equipment on-site to grade and shape the trail, which was then finished with a layer of crushed fines. The 12-foot-wide trail is intended for walking, running, and pedal biking only. Motorized vehicles such as trucks, UTVs, and ATVs are prohibited, as they can damage the trail surface. The Las Vegas Police Department will be monitoring the area both in-person and via security cameras ensure additional safety.  This project is part of a broader effort to improve Rodriguez Park and expand outdoor recreation opportunities in the community. The next phase includes construction-ready plans for a new Little League baseball field with synthetic turf, bleachers, sidewalks, lighting, expanded parking, and a press box. Plans also include three full-size soccer fields designed to accommodate both high school and college-level games. These fields will also serve as multi-use spaces for youth sports and recreational activities. All fields will feature lighting and shaded seating areas. Funding for these upcoming improvements is provided through Legislative Capital Outlay. Additionally, the City has secured a grant from the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department of the State of New Mexico. This funding will be used to upgrade the large baseball field and install new lighting at the softball field. The City of Las Vegas remains committed to improving public spaces and expanding access to outdoor recreation. Mayor David Romero, City Councilor/Mayor Pro-Tem Marvin Martinez, City Councilor Barbara Perea-Casey, City Councilor Michael Montoya and City Councilor David Ulibarri have made park development and recreational infrastructure a top priority, recognizing their importance to community health, youth engagement, and economic development. Their continued efforts include securing funding, collaborating with state agencies, and supporting long-term planning initiatives that benefit residents of all ages. From enhancing existing parks to creating new spaces for outdoor activity, the Mayor and Council are dedicated to building a more vibrant, active, and connected Las Vegas for generations to come.

Update on 9/25/25 3:45 p.m. –Due to Relocation NOTICE OF A POTENTIAL QUORUM OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF LAS VEGAS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a quorum of the Governing Body of the City of Las Vegas may be present for an Economic Development Department (EDD) Press Conference – Electric Pilot Bus Rollout on September 29, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Las Vegas Train Station, 500 Railroad Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701. They will not be making any decisions and will not be taking any action on city business. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a quorum of the Governing Body of the City of Las Vegas may be present for an Economic Development Department (EDD) Press Conference – Electric Pilot Bus Rollout on September 29, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall, 1700 N. Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701. They will not be making any decisions and will not be taking any action on city business.

The City of Las Vegas Streets Division will be conducting pothole patching on Monday, September 22, from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM at the following locations: ·         Pecos Street ·         East National Avenue Please use caution in these areas. Road detours may be in effect, and drivers are urged to watch their speed around city workers to ensure their safety. For more information, please contact the City of Las Vegas Public Works Department at 505-426-3294.

The City of Las Vegas Gas Department would like to inform residents that a gas main line relocation will take place today, Wednesday, September 17, on Reynolds Avenue, between 4th Street and 5th Street, heading north. This work is scheduled to begin at approximately 12:00 p.m. Due to this necessary construction, some customers in the surrounding area may experience a temporary gas outage. The relocation is being conducted to support the Streets Department with ongoing drainage improvement efforts. Once gas service is restored, Gas Department personnel will be available to assist customers with re-lighting any pilot lights. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding while the work is completed. Service will be restored as quickly and safely as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Gas Department at (505) 454-3832.

The City of Las Vegas Water Distribution Team will be repairing a 2-inch water main break affecting the 300 block of Santa Fe Street today, Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. During this time, residents in the area may experience low water pressure or a temporary water outage. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience as we work to restore full service. In addition to the water disruption, Santa Fe Street will be closed to all traffic from Hot Springs Blvd. to Church Street while repairs are underway. Detour signs will be posted, and we ask all drivers to follow these routes and proceed with caution for everyone’s safety. We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. For more information, please contact the Utilities Division at (505) 454-3832.

The Plaza Park inner circle will be closed on Saturday, September 13, from 10:30 a.m. to approximately 7:00 p.m. for a permitted event. This event is   not city-sponsored, operated, or organized by the City. Drive-through access to the Plaza will be limited during this time. However, parking will remain available on Bridge Street, in the Valencia Parking Lot, and on nearby side streets. Detours will be in place, so please follow posted signage and plan alternate routes to avoid delays. Local businesses will remain open, and we encourage everyone to continue supporting them during the event. Thank you for your cooperation.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a quorum of the Governing Body of the City of Las Vegas may be present for Recovery Month Event-4th Judicial District on September 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Community Garden at the corner of Railroad and Douglas, Las Vegas, NM 87701. They will not be making any decisions and will not be taking any action on city business. Sent via email to Las Vegas Optic Fax: KFUN-KLVF Radio and KNMX-KMDZ-KBQL Radio for PSA Available on City Website: www.lasvegasnm.gov

The City of Las Vegas Streets Division will be performing pothole repairs on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Traffic control and detours will be in effect at the following locations: ·     Pecos Street between East National Avenue and University Avenue These measures are necessary to ensure a safe environment for both city crews and the public. Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes during this time. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we work to improve our streets. For more information, please contact the City of Las Vegas Public Works Department at 505-426-3294.

The effluent water system at the standpipes located at City Utilities on 12th Street will be temporarily unavailable beginning September 2, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. This closure is due to necessary maintenance and will remain in effect until further notice. During this time, effluent water from the Wastewater Treatment Plant will be available only to contractors. The general public will not have access to effluent water at the standpipes until the system is restored. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding while this maintenance is completed. Additional updates will be provided as they become available. For more information, please contact the City of Las Vegas Utilities Department at 505-454-3832.

Las Vegas, N.M.  – As a reminder, and with a few additional details since the original August 15 announcement, the City of Las Vegas is finalizing preparations for the 2025 Final Al Fresco celebration. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, Plaza Park and surrounding streets will be temporarily closed beginning Thursday, August 28 at 6:00 p.m. This closure will allow time for event setup, activities, and post-event cleanup. The park will fully reopen the morning of Monday, September 1, when normal operations and drive-through access will resume. This year’s Final Al Fresco promises to be a vibrant celebration featuring a wide variety of food, craft, and drink vendors. The event brings together residents and visitors alike to enjoy the final days of summer in the heart of historic Las Vegas. The 2025 celebration is dedicated to the memory of Steve Leger, the driving force behind Friday Al Fresco and a beloved local music legend, as well as Bobby Madrid, another cherished musician who passed in July. Their lasting contributions to our music community will never be forgotten. The City also proudly honors Ms. Yvette Arellanes, co-creator of Friday Al Fresco, whose ongoing commitment has greatly enriched our city’s cultural community. A highlight of the weekend will be an exciting lineup of live music, with performances by Vegan Shark, Fireball, Luisa G, Kenny Medina, Daniel Solis, Siempre, Paul’s Alibi, Strings Attached, Danny Duran Band, Wild Country, Jeremy Sanchez, and Carlos Medina. Street Closures in Effect To accommodate the event and ensure public safety, the following streets will be closed to traffic for the duration of the celebration: ·         Bridge Street at Valencia Street / Paseo del Las Escuelas ·         Valencia Street / North Gonzales Street ·         North Gonzales Street / Plaza Park ·         Valencia Street / Hot Springs Boulevard ·         Morrison Street / West National Avenue ·         Moreno Street / South Pacific Street ·         South Gonzales Street / Moreno Street  ·         Historic Plaza Park area Drivers are advised to use alternate routes and expect delays and detours in the vicinity of Plaza Park during the closure period. Public Safety and Access Measures Weather forecasts predict increased rainstorms and precipitation throughout the event. Due to recent rainfall, the ground remains saturated and the Gallinas River is elevated. Public safety officials will monitor weather and site conditions daily. Any delays or schedule adjustments will be made with public safety as the top priority. All entrances to Plaza Park will be gated. For safety, both pedestrians and drivers are urged to proceed with caution in the area. Parking on the Plaza grounds is strictly prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to use alternative parking locations nearby. Drive-through traffic through the Plaza is suspended during the closure and will resume on Monday, September 1. Support Local Businesses While Plaza Park is closed for the event, businesses in the surrounding area remain open and ready to welcome customers. The City encourages residents and visitors to continue supporting local merchants during the celebration. The City of Las Vegas thanks the community for its cooperation and patience during these temporary closures. These efforts are essential to creating a safe, welcoming, and festive environment for everyone attending Final Al Fresco. The City looks forward to hosting a vibrant weekend of cultural celebration, food, entertainment, and community spirit. For more information on closures and event logistics, please contact the City of Las Vegas Event Planner, Chuck Griego at 505-617-5733.

City public safety officials are urging all residents to avoid the Gallinas River and the Riverwalk Park area due to elevated water levels caused by consistent rainfall and heavy overnight storms in the city and surrounding areas. While slightly drier weather is expected over the next couple of days, additional rain is forecast for the weekend, which may worsen conditions. Residents living near the Gallinas River or in low-lying drainage areas should remain alert and be prepared to move to higher ground if necessary. Several roads on the outskirts of the city are currently flooded. Officials strongly warn against driving through flood-covered roads. All posted warning signs should be obeyed, and instructions from city personnel must be followed to ensure public safety. The safety of residents remains the city’s top priority. Community cooperation is essential during this time. For the latest updates and emergency information, please visit www.lasvegasnm.gov or follow the Las Vegas City Government Facebook page.

The City of Las Vegas is conducting its final collection of essential items to assist the Ruidoso community in their ongoing recovery. This is the last opportunity for residents to contribute, and we are focusing on collecting only the most urgently needed supplies. Requested items include bottled water, tissue paper, laundry detergent, dish soap, wet wipes or baby wipes, hand sanitizer, Clorox disinfecting wipes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, diapers (all sizes), and dog or cat food. All donations must be dropped off by Thursday, August 28. The final load will be delivered to Ruidoso on Friday, August 29. We ask that only the listed items be donated, as we are concentrating efforts on critical needs. Donations may be delivered to the City of Las Vegas Public Works Building, located at 1700 N. Grand Avenue, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this effort. Your generosity and community spirit have made a difference. For more information, please call 505-454-1401 ext. 1006.