City updates on $9.8 million opioid settlement funds, unveils draft redevelopment plan for El Paseo-South Solano area

Work session includes details on youth prevention, equity in opioid response, and long-range planning for blighted corridor

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Las Cruces City Council received updates this week on two long-range initiatives — one aimed at addressing the local impacts of the opioid crisis, the other focused on revitalizing a historically underserved corridor in the city’s urban core.

During a June 23 work session, Chief Administrative Officer Barbara Bencomo outlined how the city could use $9.8 million it expects to receive through 2038 as part of the National Opioid Settlement. The funds stem from nationwide litigation against opioid manufacturers, distributors and retailers.

City officials have not yet determined how much Las Cruces might receive from a separate $7.4 billion Purdue Pharma settlement announced June 16.

Bencomo said the city’s approach will be guided by five key principles: saving lives, using evidence-based methods, investing in youth prevention, focusing on racial equity and ensuring a fair, transparent process. She also shared recommendations from the city’s Opioid Settlement Advisory Council, which include targeted support for vulnerable populations and community-informed strategies. A full breakdown of goals and funding priorities is available on the city’s Opioid Settlement Funds webpage.

The council also heard a presentation from Sites Southwest, a consulting firm helping to shape the city’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Area plan for El Paseo Road and South Solano Drive — two corridors that run between Lohman and University avenues.

The area was designated an MRA in 2024, a move that allows the city to direct planning and funding efforts toward areas showing signs of blight. The draft plan includes strategies to improve public safety, walkability, economic opportunity and quality of life for residents and workers.

Councilors are expected to vote on the final redevelopment plan in an upcoming meeting. More details are available on the city’s MRA webpage.

Video of the June 23 work session is available on the City of Las Cruces YouTube channel. The next regular council meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday, July 7, at City Hall, 700 N. Main St.