Mesilla commission approves 4,295‑sq.-ft. CTE building for Rio Grande Preparatory Institute

The Town of Mesilla Planning, Zoning and Historical Appropriateness Commission on May 4 approved a request from Las Cruces Public Schools to build an approximately 4,295-square-foot Career and Technical Education (CTE) facility for Rio Grande Preparatory Institute at 2355 Avenida de Mesilla.

Economic & Community Development Director Eddie Salazar presented the application, describing trade classrooms and workshop space, restrooms and utility areas, outdoor covered work areas, sidewalk, drainage and utility improvements, and fencing and access upgrades. The proposed structure would use CMU block construction with structural steel framing, stucco exterior finishes, clay tile accents and a TPO roofing system; staff said rooftop equipment would be screened behind parapet walls to limit visibility from public streets.

Commissioners asked whether materials and colors would complement the surrounding historic area, whether rooftop ventilation systems would be visible from neighboring properties, and how parking needs were being addressed. Project representatives said exterior finishes would remain subdued and compatible with the campus, mechanical systems would be screened from view and parking calculations were addressed in earlier campus reviews and future campus planning. Commissioners also noted potential long-term workforce benefits from the trades instruction the building would support.

The Commission voted unanimously to approve PZHAC Case #062127. Mr. Salazar said the Commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Trustees for final consideration.

The approval covers design compatibility and site modifications described in the staff report; no existing historic buildings on the campus will be altered as part of the standalone construction, according to project representatives.