Pershing Street

Pershing Project to Deliver Safer, More Accessible Infrastructure
The City of Truth or Consequences is moving forward with a major infrastructure improvement project along Pershing Street, aimed at revitalizing the area with safer, more accessible streets and sidewalks. The project, Municipal Arterial Program (MAP), which includes roadway resurfacing, curb & gutter, ADA-compliant sidewalks, and drainage improvements, is designed to enhance both public safety and neighborhood aesthetics. “The road has already been paved, but with the water cut, it’s not aesthetically pleasing anymore,” said Streets Department Director Buster Smith. “This will upgrade the pavement and the sidewalk.”

The Pershing Street improvements follow the recent completion of a waterline replacement under the MSD project, which cleared the way for surface upgrades to begin. With multiple infrastructure projects often overlapping, careful coordination between departments is essential. Street crews must strategically time their work to ensure they’re laying final pavement only after underground utilities are fully addressed, avoiding the costly and disruptive need to tear up freshly finished roads. Thanks to this planning, the upcoming surface work is expected to last an average of 15 years, providing long-term value and durability for the community.

Supervisor Brendin Anglin emphasized the broader impact of the project, noting that it supports long-term growth and aligns with state transportation goals. “The project is designed to revitalize the area with safer, more accessible streets and sidewalks,” he said. “It will improve public safety with pedestrian features and mitigate potential dangers with water crossings, while also enhancing the look and feel of the area to boost community pride.” He added that the project may include green infrastructure such as native landscaping and stormwater improvements and is expected to raise property values in the area.

Because Pershing Street connects two arterial roads, Date and Main, it qualifies for funding through the Municipal Arterial Program (MAP), which prioritizes projects that link to New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) routes. The MAP-funded portion of the project is expected to begin first due to an upcoming deadline, with additional work potentially following through the Local Government Road Fund (LGRF).

As the city continues to invest in infrastructure that benefits residents and supports sustainable development, the Pershing Street project stands out as a model of thoughtful planning and community-focused improvement.

UPDATE: 9/5/2025	Municipal Arterial Program (MAP) Pershing Street & 2nd Avenue Improvements Control No. L100652
PURPOSE	The project was selected from the City's Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) to improve the safety for the public, along with improving the aesthetics of the Pershing Street roadway. The MAP program requires the renovated street to connect to two NMDOT roads, in this case, Date and Main.
TIMELINE	Award letter received.
SCOPE	Planning, design, and permitting services for the roadway reconstruction of Pershing Street (from Main Street to 2nd Ave.) and 2nd Ave. (from Pershing Street to N. Date St.). The project will consist of full-depth roadway reconstruction including new curb and gutter, concrete sidewalk, drive pads, ADA accessibility, drainage improvements, adjustment of existing utilities, and permanent signing and striping.
BENEFITS	The project will prove beneficial to creating ADA-compliant sidewalks for easier traversing the hill on Pershing.
DISRUPTIONS	The project is expected to cause minimal, temporary disruptions in the area. These include interruptions to traffic flow and reduced parking availability as sections of the street are closed or rerouted. Residents and visitors can also expect increased noise, dust, and general disruption to the usual atmosphere. Pedestrian detours may be necessary, potentially affecting those with mobility needs. Additionally, there may be short-term utility interruptions as infrastructure systems are upgraded.
MITIGATION STRATEGIES	The project team will implement a range of mitigation strategies to minimize disruptions and address community concerns throughout the construction period. The city's daupler system may be employed to notify residents and businesses of closures. To maintain traffic flow and ensure public safety, clearly marked alternative routes and detour signage will be provided in coordination with the City Street Department. Traffic sheets may be included in the plan. Contractors are required to keep the construction area clean and free of unnecessary debris.
FUNDING	City application request was $744,472.31 (75% NMDOT funding in the amount of $558,354.23, with a 25% cash match of $186,118.08). Awards given 5/15/2025 for $172,333.00 in MAP funds, with a local match requirement of $57,444.00.
TOTAL FUNDING FOR PLANNING, DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT	Between $220,000 and $230,000
APPLICATION ENGINGEER	Wilson & Company
ENGINEER	To be determined.
CONTRACTORS	To be determined.
RESOURCES	None at this time.