In a recent city council meeting, significant discussions centered around infrastructure projects and the adoption of a new master plan for the Las Cruces Public Library.

City officials announced plans to initiate bidding for two major infrastructure projects: the Madrid project, set to go out to bid in January 2025, and the South Main project, anticipated for March 2025, pending necessary permits from BNSF. The council expressed enthusiasm for these developments, particularly as they will directly benefit local districts.

The meeting also featured the presentation of the Las Cruces Public Library's master plan, a comprehensive strategy developed over two years in collaboration with Godfrey's Associates. Carol Bray, director of the Quality of Life Department, highlighted the plan's importance in addressing community needs for library services well into the future. The plan includes a phased approach to improvements over 5, 10, and 20 years, focusing on staffing, expanding library space, and enhancing access across the city.

Brad Waters, the library consultant, shared findings from a community survey indicating strong public support for the library, with 93% of respondents deeming it very important. The survey also revealed a willingness to support library funding through taxes, with only 7.1% opposed. Waters emphasized the need for increased funding, recommending that the library budget be nearly doubled by 2035 to better align with national standards.

Key recommendations from the master plan include renovating and expanding the Branigan Library, which is projected to cost approximately $15 million, and establishing additional library branches to meet the growing needs of the community. The council is encouraged to consider forming a library foundation to support funding efforts and explore joint-use projects that integrate library facilities with housing developments.

The council unanimously approved the resolution to adopt the library's master plan, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing library services and infrastructure in Las Cruces.