By Organ Mountain News on May 27, 2026

NMDOT to hold ribbon cutting for completed NM 101/University Avenue improvement project

State and local officials will mark completion of the NM 101/University Avenue improvement project during a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday in Las Cruces.

ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place Thursday for the completed NM 101/University Avenue improvement project in Las Cruces. (Illustration created with AI using a reference image / Organ Mountain News)

Officials will celebrate the $22 million roadway project Thursday at Zia Middle School in Las Cruces

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - State and local officials will gather Thursday morning to celebrate completion of the NM 101/University Avenue improvement project, a $22 million infrastructure effort aimed at improving safety, traffic flow and long-term mobility in the Mesilla and Las Cruces area.

The ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 28, at Zia Middle School, 1300 NM 101 in Las Cruces.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation said the project included roadway reconstruction, pedestrian and bicycle accommodations, drainage improvements, utility upgrades and other safety enhancements along the corridor.

Officials said the project was completed in partnership with La Calerita Construction, LLC.

Scheduled speakers include Acting Cabinet Secretary David Quintana, Town of Mesilla Mayor Russell Hernandez and District Engineer Aaron Chavarria.

“The NM 101 improvements will provide safer and more efficient travel for motorists, students and families who use this corridor every day,” Chavarria said in a statement.

NMDOT officials said representatives from local governments and community partners are expected to attend the event, which will conclude with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony recognizing completion of the project.

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