Courthouse to receive new landscaping

Roosevelt County has received grant money to install turf around the Courthouse in an effort to beautify the downtown area in Portales.

As part of the New Mexico Clean and Beautiful grant program, Roosevelt County hopes this project will "meet the objective to improve green spaces and maximize sustainable landscaping," Carla Weems, special projects coordinator for the county said.

While the county submitted an application for $36,440, Weems said only $12,025 was awarded.

"The County will be pursuing other funding for the remaining funds to complete the project," Weems said.

To secure the other funding, Weems said she has applied for another grant for the remaining $24,425. They have until the end of fiscal year 2025 to secure the funding and complete the project.

Weems said this project is necessary, because the turf will replace the dead grass around the Courthouse, which is a result of drought conditions and water restrictions. It will also cap off the irrigation system.

"Green spaces are of great importance in the image of a city as well as a benefit for the citizens," she said. Having turf will "not only add curb appeal but will be a cost saving measure of a valuable resource and also low maintenance for staff," Weems added.

In a letter from the New Mexico Tourism Dept., tourism development director Holly Kelley wrote to the county, "we were very impressed by the level of commitment your organization has for the community.  Your grant application and projects illustrate your desire to beautify your community through sustainable tasks that encourage civic pride."

Because the Courthouse is at the heart of downtown, Weems said "These small changes will not only conserve resources but beautify our community."