Soledad Canyon Road multi-use path nears completion

LAS CRUCES - The Doña Ana County Engineering/Road Department has nearly finished upgrades to a multi-use path along Soledad Canyon Road, connecting Dripping Springs Road to the Soledad Canyon Day Use area at the base of the Organ Mountains, according to a county news release.

“I thank all the area residents for your support and working with us to ensure that the multi-use path along Soledad Canyon Road is a project we can all be proud of for years to come,” said Dist. 3 Doña Ana County Commissioner Shannon Reynolds. “Providing a safe path for cyclists and pedestrians along Soledad Canyon Road will allow for greater access for everyone to enjoy our enviable weather and take full advantage of its many uses.”

The $7 million project, funded by a Federal Lands Access Program grant and state legislative appropriations, expands the road for safe inclusion of traffic and pathways for walking, running, horseback riding and bicycling, the release stated.

The final phase of the project includes signage and traffic striping to help guide the safe use for all modes of traffic.

The two-lane roadway now includes two five-foot bike lanes, which will be marked with appropriate signage and painted bike symbols on the asphalt surface. Additionally, “No Parking” and “No Motor Vehicles” signs will be posted along the multi-use path to ensure its safe use.

A five-foot buffer separates the cycling lane from the section of path that allows for horseback riding, walking, running and cycling.

“I know people still have questions and may be a little confused,” Reynolds said. “We appreciate the patience and support Talavera residents have given this project.”

Reynolds asks residents to continue to be patient as the final phases of the project are completed. The multi-use trail will be monitored over the next six months, and additional adjustments may be made. Reynolds also mentioned that residents along Soledad Canyon Road should place garbage receptacles at the edge of the driving lane on pickup days. School buses will also be directed to stop on the driving lane to keep other paths open.

For questions about the Soledad Canyon Road use and signs, residents are encouraged to contact the Doña Ana County Engineering/Road Department at 575-525-6164.

Commissioner Reynolds can be reached via email at sreynolds@donaanacounty.org or by phone at his office at 575-525-5807.