Southeastern New Mexico Economic Development District
The Southeastern New Mexico Economic Development District, formed in 1971, is the largest planning district in New Mexico, covering over 26,000 square miles and providing regional planning, development management services, and technical assistance to local governments in five counties.
About Southeastern New Mexico Economic Development District
Southeastern New Mexico Economic Development District (SNMEDD) was formed in 1971 to increase local government understanding of federal programs and to provide regional planning and development management services. It entered into agreements with municipal and county governments of Chaves, Eddy, Lea, Lincoln, and Otero counties. Covering over 26,000 square miles, it stands as the largest planning district in New Mexico. SNMEDD assists local governments in planning for major capital improvements, procuring federal and state aid, and providing capacity building and technical assistance.
Key Projects and Initiatives
SNMEDD manages a wide variety of projects including water and wastewater system improvements, business retention, business assistance, business development, solid waste management, public buildings, industrial park improvements, job development and assistance, and transportation-related initiatives. These projects align with the goal of generating jobs, retaining existing jobs, and stimulating industrial and commercial growth in economically depressed areas.
Funding Sources
The funding sources for SNMEDD include the US Economic Development Administration, the State of New Mexico, Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), and local government members. These sources provide the financial support necessary to carry out various regional planning and development projects.
Governance
The Board of Directors for SNMEDD comprises elected and appointed representatives from each of the 26 governmental jurisdictions within its boundaries. These representatives guide the strategic decisions and ensure that the objectives of SNMEDD are met.
Transportation Programs
SNMEDD supports several transportation programs, including the Statewide Transportation Improvements Program (STIP), Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), and Recreational Trails Program (RTP). These programs fund initiatives related to enhancing pedestrian and bicycle facilities, improving safety on public roads, and providing for recreational trails, respectively. Public transit providers in the region include Carlsbad Transit, Clovis Area Transit, Hobbs Express, Portales Area Transit, Roswell Transit, and Zia Therapy - Z Trans.