The City of Sunland Park has been awarded $499,798 through the FY26 Outdoor Recreation Trails+ Grant from the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division. This funding advances Phase Two of the Rio Grande Trail, a multi-use, bi-national, tri-city corridor with a planned length of approximately 10 miles. The City is currently developing the planning and design for the first 5-mile segment through a state grant, spanning from the New Mexico–Texas state line to Country Club Road.

Phase Two will construct a 0.52-mile concrete multi-purpose path, extending the existing Rio Grande Trail alignment and reinforcing the City’s long-term commitment to safe, accessible outdoor recreation. Once complete, the enhanced trail network will support public health, outdoor tourism, and regional connectivity.

Mayor Javier Perea stated that the grant strengthens a project with lasting community value.
“The Rio Grande Trail is an important part of our long term, regional vision,” Mayor Perea said. “We value the Outdoor Recreation Division’s support. This award helps us continue a project that will provide lasting benefits for Sunland Park.”

City Manager Mario Juarez-Infante emphasized the significance of sustained investment in outdoor infrastructure, stating, “This grant is an important milestone for the next phase of the Rio Grande Trail,” Juarez-Infante said. “It aligns with years of planning, engineering, and coordinated work, and it moves us closer to delivering a trail system that will serve residents, visitors, and future generations.”

The City of Sunland Park will proceed with next steps in accordance with state grant requirements, including coordination and procurement processes set by the Outdoor Recreation Division and the State of New Mexico.