Holloman airmen brighten New York Avenue while new businesses add energy to downtown Alamogordo

Service members from Holloman Air Force Base recently rolled up their sleeves on New York Avenue, painting a vibrant new mural and refreshing an overhang as part of the base’s Big Give community service effort.

Airmen from the 54th Operations Support Squadron completed the project, contributing to ongoing revitalization in Alamogordo’s historic downtown. The Big Give is a month-long initiative in which Holloman squadrons partner with local communities across Otero County to restore and improve public and commercial spaces. Officials describe the effort as service beyond the mission that strengthens ties between the base and the surrounding area.

The work comes amid continued private business investment in the New York Avenue corridor. Alamogordo MainStreet has advanced infrastructure and streetscape improvements on the 800 and 900 blocks in recent years, including utilities upgrades, sidewalks, lighting, and public art that aim to make the district more inviting for residents and visitors.

New businesses are also adding momentum. The Drink Well, Alamogordo’s first dirty soda shop, opened inside the Ink Well Innovation Center at 314 E. 9th Street. The shop serves creative dirty sodas, energy drink concoctions, snacks, and signature “inks.” Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Ink Well itself was developed to support local entrepreneurship and small-business growth, providing a fitting home for the new venture. A grand opening was held June 17.

A short walk away on New York Avenue, Pink Flamingo Funky Finds opened its doors at 900 New York Ave. in early July. The shop specializes in unique gifts, vintage items, handmade goods, and one-of-a-kind finds. Its arrival coincided with Downtown Nites activities that draw shoppers, food vendors, music, and community foot traffic to the district.

Together, the volunteer improvements by Holloman personnel and the arrival of new independent retailers underscore a broader push to keep downtown Alamogordo lively and welcoming. Local leaders and MainStreet advocates continue to encourage residents to support these businesses, explore the refreshed streetscape, and take part in the community spaces that result from partnerships like the Big Give.

Visitors can find both shops and the latest mural work along the New York Avenue corridor in the heart of downtown.

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