9-07-2023 12:42pm

Alamogordo MainStreet Side Street Art Project Work Began

Chris Edwards Editor

AlamogordoTownNews.com and KALHRadio.org has run a recent series of articles and commentaries highlighting the importance of the historical neighborhood of Chihuahuita, a once prosperous and the earliest settlement, in the city proper, of Alamogordo.

Over the years (excepting for New York Avenue from 10th Street to 7th Street) the neighborhood failed to garner the investment of all other Alamogordo neighborhoods. That history is dated to its founding. Some early leaders considered it the barrio of Alamogordo, New Mexico. Due to decades of neglect, and lacking infrastructure, many houses and the business district of New York Avenue continued to age and deteriorate without much effort to revitalize.

But as reported in other recent stories, the momentum is now building on a revival of the Chihuahuita neighborhood. From new sidewalks and parks, and now the alleyways of the New York Avenue business district, a revival effort is showing a shovel ready effort.

This most recent effort is led with grants garnered from a commitment by Alamogordo MainStreet, and thanks to passionate business leaders, hands on political leadership and community volunteers.

This past weekend an hub of activity was abuzz as the Alamogordo MainStreet “Side Street Art Projects” work debuted with a bang. An awe inspiring collaboration aimed at revitalizing Alamogordo Mainstreet's east side alleyway, marked a significant milestone on Saturday, August 19th, 2023.

With an army of around 25 hardworking and dedicated volunteers, including Boy Scouts from Troop 147, board members and their spouses, and even the enthusiastic involvement of City Commissioner Sharon McDonald, the project demonstrated the incredible impact of community-driven initiatives.

Key contributors to the success of the clean up project were Cindy Boylan, immediate past president of the board, and her husband Bill, who generously provided an excavator and dump truck.

City Commissioner Sharon McDonald, a strong supporter of Alamogordo Mainstreet and the Side Street Art Project, went above and beyond by personally power washing a significant portion of the alley. Her active participation underscored the deep-rooted commitment of local officials to actively engage in the revitalization of our local mainstreet.

One of the most crucial aspects that made this transformative project possible was the AARP Community Challenge Grant. Alamogordo MainStreet received $12,600 to begin the project, since starting the project Alamogordo MainStreet has been able to secure an additional $3,400 in sponsorships of benches and raised bed planters. The grant served as the foundation upon which the Side Street Art Project was built, allowing for the coordination of resources, manpower, and equipment to create a tangible and lasting impact.

Alamogordo MainStreet is immensely thankful for the energy and enthusiasm of the volunteers, the dedication of our Board Members and City Commissioner Sharon McDonald, and the camaraderie that emerged. Special thanks as well to all who have sponsored benches and planters, including Danielle Rondelez, Casa Toyota Alamogordo, Stone Electric & Power, Mesa Verde Enterprises, Aggtec, Elite Memories Boutique, Thrive in Southern NM, and Showcase Carpet and Tile. Excitement for this project continues with several other businesses and individuals who have pledged to sponsor.

The Side Street Art Project stands as a shining example of the transformative power of community engagement and collaboration.

Through the combined efforts of Alamogordo MainStreet volunteers, local officials, sponsors, and the unwavering support of organizations like AARP, we will be able to bring shade, greenery, and lots of color to our east alleyway, and transform it into a vibrant, functional, and artistic area that will foster a strong sense of community pride and local heritage.

For more information, or to learn how to get involved, visit www.alamogordomainstreet.org, or visit their Facebook or instagram.

To learn more about other revitalization efforts in this historic neighborhood such as the Dudley School, sidewalk improvements and installations and more reach out to District 5 Commissioner Sharon McDonald at 575-446-9910