Dona County approves RV park project with limited access to Dusty Lane

The Planning & Zoning Commission of Doña Ana County convened on June 12, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on a proposed zone change for a new RV park project.

The meeting commenced with a presentation regarding the RV park, which is set to be developed in two phases, including a charging station. The applicant, Anita, emphasized the necessity of the project, noting the lack of RV parks in the area and expressing her intention to provide a valuable service to the community.

A significant point of discussion was the access to Dusty Lane, which was deemed prohibited due to its proximity to an intersection and the inadequate turn radius for RVs. The primary access for the RV park will be through Thorpe Road, with Dusty Lane designated as an emergency exit only. The county fire marshal confirmed that a crash gate would be installed to restrict regular access while allowing emergency vehicles to enter if necessary.

Commissioners raised questions regarding the site plan and the requirement for restrooms in the first phase of the project, which was confirmed to be mandatory under recent regulations. The discussion also included the need for modifications to ensure that the emergency access point would not be misused by regular traffic.

After thorough deliberation, the commission moved to conditionally approve the zone change from T3 to T4, with specific conditions including the prohibition of access to Dusty Lane except for emergency purposes and the requirement for a crash gate. The motion received unanimous support from the commissioners present.

The meeting concluded with a clear directive for the applicant to adhere to the established conditions, ensuring that the project aligns with community safety and planning standards. The commission's decision reflects a commitment to responsible development while addressing the needs of the local population.