COLUMBUS – A major flood-control project in Columbus that has been years in the making has reached a significant milestone with the completion of Phase 3 of the Southern New Mexico Berm Project,
Columbus Flood Control Project Reaches Major Milestone After More Than a Decade of Planninghe approximately $30 million project is designed to protect the Columbus Port of Entry, nearby homes and businesses, and the neighboring community of Puerto Palomas, Chihuahua, from recurring flood damage that has affected the region for decades
While officials celebrated the completion of Phase 3 on June 1, the history of the project stretches back more than a decade. Planning efforts began around 2013 and 2014 when state and local leaders identified flooding as one of the largest obstacles to growth and development around the Columbus Port of Entry and NM Highway 11.
Engineers developed plans for a large flood-control system that would include a multi-mile protective berm, drainage improvements, detention areas to capture stormwater, and infrastructure designed to divert floodwaters away from populated areas and critical transportation routes.
Officials say flooding had long limited development opportunities in the area by making some properties difficult to insure, finance, or develop. The project was designed not only to improve public safety but also to open the door for future economic growth along the U.S.-Mexico border.
According to state officials, the completed flood-control system will help protect approximately 1,800 acres and strengthen infrastructure serving one of New Mexico’s most important international crossings.
Officials from the New Mexico Border Authority, Luna County and partner agencies participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of Phase 3 of the Southern New Mexico Berm Project near Columbus, New Mexico. The project is designed to reduce flood risks, protect the Columbus Port of Entry and surrounding communities, and support future economic development along the U.S.-Mexico border. Photo courtesy of the New Mexico Border Authority.omic Development New Mexico Deputy Secretary Isaac Romero said the project demonstrates what can be accomplished when state agencies, local governments, and community partners work together to address long-standing challenges.
New Mexico Border Authority Director Gerardo Fierro said the project required years of coordination and funding partnerships. He noted that restructuring the effort into multiple phases helped maintain momentum and secure additional funding needed to move construction forward.
Flooding in the Columbus area has created environmental, public safety, and economic concerns on both sides of the international border. Officials describe the berm project as a binational benefit because it protects communities in both southern New Mexico and northern Chihuahua.
Funding for the project includes approximately $14.5 million from New Mexico capital outlay appropriations, $13 million from the New Mexico Water Trust Board, $2.3 million from Border Planning and Infrastructure appropriations, and $1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
State and local officials gathered at the Ruth Coleman Memorial Columbus Community Center and later at the berm site on June 1 to celebrate the completion of Phase 3 and recognize the years of planning and construction that brought the project to its current stage.
Luna County Commissioner Christie Ann Harvey said the improvements position Luna County for safer and more sustainable long-term growth and represent a significant investment in the region’s infrastructure, economy, and quality of life.
Officials say the project’s long-term impact will extend beyond flood protection, helping create conditions for future commercial development, economic investment, and continued growth in the Columbus area while protecting residents and businesses from future flood events.
By John Krehbiel = Bravo Mic Communications News john@bravomic.com
