Day One of NM MainStreet Conference in Alamogordo Showcases Revitalization, Partnerships, and Historic Pride

Alamogordo, NM — October 15, 2025 — The opening day of the New Mexico MainStreet Institute, hosted by Alamogordo MainStreet at the Dudley School Community Center and Alameda Park Zoo, was hailed as a resounding success, drawing over 130 community leaders, business developers, and revitalization professionals from across the state.

Historic Launch at Dudley School Community Center

The Tularosa Historic Society, City of Alamogordo, and Mayor Pro Temp Sharon McDonald proudly unveiled the newly rehabilitated Dudley School Community Center, once a derelict facility, now transformed into a vibrant civic space. Its debut served as a powerful symbol of Alamogordo’s commitment to historic preservation and adaptive reuse.

Mayor Susan Payne’s Vision for Infrastructure and Collaboration 

Mayor Payne welcomed attendees with a passionate address emphasizing infrastructure investment, community partnerships, and collaborative momentum as key drivers of private investment and civic pride. She praised local contractors and businesses for their synergy, spotlighting General Hydronics Utilities for completing their work ahead of schedule and under budget. General Hydronics Utilities donation of a commemorative plaque honoring a sheriff killed on New York Avenue in the 1920s—complete with a bronze star embedded in the new sidewalks—underscored the city’s dedication to honoring its past while building its future in collaboration with local business.

 Historic Gifts and Community Investment 

The Shackleford family was also recognized along with GHU for their generous donation of a $40,000 historic railroad clock to the MainStreet makeover project, further enriching the cultural tapestry of downtown. These acts of civic generosity was one of many highlighted throughout the day.

Economic Impact and Entrepreneurial Growth

Nolan Ojeda, Executive Director of Alamogordo MainStreet, presented a compelling overview of the $9 million in public investment and $5 million in private funding fueling downtown revitalization. He celebrated the success of the Alamogordo MainStreet Venture Academy highlighting a successful graduate Infinity Sweets that was providing most of the food for the event. He mentored new businesses and fostered entrepreneurial growth from the academy and downtown investment. From murals to modernized sidewalks, Ojeda emphasized how Alamogordo is setting a statewide example of community-led development.

Celebration and Recognition at Alameda Park Zoo 

The day concluded with a festive gathering at the Alameda Park Zoo, where awards were distributed to MainStreet districts across New Mexico.

After completing New Mexico MainStreet’s Accelerator process, Revitalize San Pedro Partnership and Lordsburg Economic Advancement Project are now designated MainStreet programs! Congratulations to both organizations -- their dedication to their local communities is unparalleled. 

The event marked the beginning of a three-day institute celebrating 40 years of the NM MainStreet program, which has empowered communities to preserve historic districts, support small businesses, and foster economic vitality. Awards were presented to leaders all over the state and also included recognition to Alamogordo Acting City Manager Dr. Stephanie Hernandez for her commitment, leadership and contributions to marking the New York Avenue development grants and investment a reality. 

Statewide Spotlight on Alamogordo 

According to the NM Economic Development Department, the conference serves as a “learning lab” for revitalization strategies, with Alamogordo’s Great Blocks Project at the heart of the curriculum. Day one was seen as a huge success with day two planned as a workshop day with leaders doing hands on projects in the downtown street of New York Avenue. 

Sources:  New Mexico MainStreet Institute Event Page

NM Economic Development Department Newsletter

CitizenPortal.ai – Alamogordo to Host NM MainStreet Conference

Chris Edwards on Site for Alamogordo Town News 

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