News and Media

CARC Begins New Expansion to Campus in Carlsbad, New Mexico

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Carlsbad, NM, September 2021 – CARC, Inc., a business that provides residential, vocational, and habilitation services to individuals with special needs, has broken ground on two new buildings. This expansion will help CARC in its efforts to operate more efficiently and offer more services across its campus. Starting in 1973, Bob and Barbara Forrest had a dream to help handicap children and bought the State Bird Farm property in the country on the north side of Carlsbad. Today, there are 12 group homes housing 78 individuals, a child day care program for 54 children, and a Early Intervention program serving ove...

Carlsbad, New Mexico at the Heart of Fastest State Growth

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Carlsbad, NM, September, 2021 – According to the most recent U.S. Census tallies, Eddy County New Mexico was the fastest growing area of the state over the last ten year. With a growth rate of 15.8% and an overall population of 62,314 Eddy County continues to be a hot spot for economic vitality. Carlsbad, the county seat in Eddy, is the epicenter of this growth. The Carlsbad Department of Development (CDOD) obtained the raw U.S. Census data recently and discovered that the Census County Division (CCD) shows Carlsbad’s population count at 40,665. According to the U.S. Census states can have one o...

U-Haul announces opening of three-story moving and storage center in Carlsbad

Friday, September 03, 2021

Demands for secure self-storage units and moving services prompted U-Haul to build a facility in Carlsbad. July 1 the Phoenix, Arizona- based company acquired property west of South Canal Street and U.S. Highway 62/180, a news release from the company stated. The company, founded in 1945 in Ridgefield, Washington, planned a three-story storage center which would sit on 6.23 acres and should open by next year, read the release. Continue reading here.

Eddy County Sees Significant Rise in COVID-19 Cases

Friday, August 06, 2021

As the number of COVID-19 cases increases rapidly in Eddy County, your most effective defense is the COVID-19 vaccine. Unfortunately, Eddy County represents one of the state’s highest resurgences in COVID-19 cases with positivity rate of 15.76%. Consequently, Artesia General Hospital is caring for a rising number of critically ill patients, and nearby healthcare facilities are exceeding capacity. The current vaccine rate in Eddy County, according to the Department of Health, is 41.1% – the fourth lowest of the state’s 33 counties. If you haven’t been vaccinated, it is not too late! Appointments can be scheduled through the New Mexico Department o...

Carlsbad is Open and Ready to Celebrate Park and Recreation Month

Tuesday, July 20, 2021

July is Park and Recreation Month and Carlsbad, New Mexico, is known for its outdoor spaces. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Lincoln National Forest, Brantley Lake State Park, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, and Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area enrich the excellent quality of life enjoyed by residents and create a vacation destination for visitors. They are also major economic drivers. Now that New Mexico is opening up from pandemic restrictions, programming is once again in full swing: Carlsbad is open and ready to be enjoyed. “Carlsbad is the gateway to two national parks and home to two state park...

New trailer and intern part of State grant for Keep Carlsbad Beautiful

Monday, July 19, 2021

More than $10,000 for an equipment trailer and a youth intern are part of a State grant for Keep Carlsbad Beautiful approved by the Carlsbad City Council. In a memorandum to councilors from City of Carlsbad Utilities Director Ron Myers, the City was awarded a $15,000 grant through the New Mexico Department of Tourism’s Keep New Mexico Clean and Beautiful Grant for the current fiscal year. Councilors approved the grant July 13 during a regular City Council meeting. Keep Carlsbad Beautiful Director Mary Garwood said the grant included $4,900 for an equipment trailer and $5,760 for a youth intern. Read full article.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Open For Reservation

Sunday, July 18, 2021

Photos of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Tuesday, July 6, 2021, in Eddy County, New Mexico. Carlsbad Caverns includes the largest chamber in North America , named the Big Room, which is almost 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet high at its highest point according to National Park Service. The cavern features a variety of speleothems including columns, soda straws, draperies, helictites, and popcorn. The park offers bat flight viewing at sunset and sunrise. The park contains over 119 caves but only three caves are open to public tours. Carlsbad Caverns is the most famous and is full...

Carlsbad Medical Center remains steadfast in service to southeastern New Mexico

Saturday, July 17, 2021

I write today with hope for the future and gratitude for the resilience of our provider team at Carlsbad Medical Center. The pandemic has demonstrated how interconnected we all are, the impact each one of us can have and the benefit of working together for a common cause. We care deeply about our community and remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver safe, quality healthcare services. The arc of life is always present in a hospital, but its frailty has been very clear this past year. Thousands of patients received the medical care they needed thanks to our physicians, nurses, pharmacists...

15 Organizations Receive Economic Development Grants

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

SANTA FE, N.M. – Nearly $260,000 has been awarded to 15 local economic development organizations through LEADS, Local Economic Assistance & Development Support, the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) announced today. Grant amounts ranged from $7,400 to $25,000 and funding is provided on a cost reimbursement basis. Funding provided through LEADS is intended to create jobs through recruitment, retention, expansion, and startup activities; develop the tax base; and provide incentives for business development. “LEADS is an important program because it allows us to invest in strong initiatives and collaborate with local communities as we work together to create jobs,” Economic Developmen...

New Mexico prepares for new rural broadband push

Saturday, July 03, 2021

When Carey Beam tried to initiate an online job training program for rural residents in Northern New Mexico, she got what she called “a kick in the teeth.” The group that wanted to run the program at a library in the village of Cuba told her the internet connection there was not strong enough to train people to work from home. That was summer 2019. Two years later, Beam, who has lived in the tiny community for five years, said nothing has changed. “We hit a roadblock with internet connectivity,” she said. Read full article.

NM internet company to expand rural services after being denied by state

Thursday, July 01, 2021

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The pandemic exposed just how bad internet access is in many parts of New Mexico. However, when a local internet firm wanted to expand service last year, a state agency denied their request. New Mexico Surf offers wireless internet and says their current system on Sandia Crest is overloaded. Last year, the New Mexico Department of Transportation denied their permit to build roadside utility poles for projects that would have expanded service in the east mountains. “That would cover the entire Sandia Park area that would allow us to give 100-meg service which a lot of the consumers only hav...

Carlsbad, NM Economic Department of Development Recognizes National Homeownership Month

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

Any month can be “homeownership month” when you are purchasing a home. The Carlsbad Department of Development recognizes National Homeownership Month during June and beyond by raising awareness about the benefits that homeownership brings to families, neighborhoods, and communities alike. The real estate market is thriving, and Carlsbad is working to make homeownership a reality for individuals who dream of owning their own home. Why Homeownership Matters Owning a home is a cornerstone of the “American Dream.” Homeownership produces a sense of pride, financial stability, and equity. Many homeowners benefit from tax deductions and affordable monthly mortgage payments that are lower than th...

Carlsbad Museum and Art Center gets new name and logo

Tuesday, June 15, 2021

The Carlsbad Museum and Art Center returned to its roots after a name change approved by Carlsbad City Councilors. Founded in 1931 as the first municipal museum in New Mexico, the museum was known as the Carlsbad Museum or Carlsbad Municipal Museum. In the 1980s it became the Carlsbad Museum and Art Center, read a memo from City of Carlsbad Municipal Services Director Angie Barrios-Testa. Councilors approved the name change June 8 after a presentation at the May 25 meeting by Jameson Lucas IV of Open Minds Awake, a brand and design creative agency. Read full article.

New Mexico's economic outlook continues to improve

Monday, June 14, 2021

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – State lawmakers received a promising update about New Mexico's economy during a state interim committee meeting Monday. New Mexico businesses are expanding, according to the update. Intel, for example, is adding 700 new jobs. "We feel like this investment, which is an additional 700 jobs and 3.5 billion dollars of CapEx that they're going to spend, is not only going to be a huge uplift for that community of Rio Rancho and Albuquerque, but it's also going to put this facility in line for potential federal funding,” said Alicia Keyes, cabinet secretary of the Economic Development Department. Read full article.

Carlsbad Police get $101K grant from State for Enhanced 911 system

Friday, June 11, 2021

A $101,000 grant from the State of New Mexico should improve emergency telephone services at the Carlsbad Police Department. Tuesday night, the Carlsbad City Council approved a grant agreement for fiscal year 2022 with the Local Government Division of the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) for the Enhanced 911 Act. The New Mexico State Board of Finance awarded the grant to the City of Carlsbad May 18 for enhanced 911 services and equipment, read the agreement with the State. Read full article.

Here's How These Businesses Exploded During the Pandemic

Wednesday, June 09, 2021

It’s been incredibly interesting to watch just how the world has responded to the Covid-19 crisis. Some businesses and individuals didn’t seem to respond or pivot at all, but a select group of companies figured out how to not only stay afloat, but also thrive in the midst of this pandemic. These companies, the successful amidst the chaos, act as a compelling case study for many economists around the globe (since this is truly all unprecedented), and for myself. I’ve been looking at the companies that have actually grown during Covid-19, and I dug into just how they’ve been able to do it. Hopefully, this insight wil...

Front Line: Infrastructure Upgrades Vital to U.S. Economy

Wednesday, June 02, 2021

One of President Joe Biden’s first acts was to announce a $2.3 trillion bill to repair and upgrade the nation’s infrastructure. The bill addresses what has become a perennial topic of debate in Congress, and one that has repeatedly been set aside for action at some future date. It has been well-documented across the United States that years of neglect have resulted in roads and bridges in dire need of repair, outdated public transportation, subpar Internet service, and other critical infrastructure needs. In its most recent report card on the condition of America’s infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE...

In Focus: The Effects of the Pandemic on Industrial Design

Tuesday, June 01, 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected every facet of our economy, increasing a cultural reliance on e-commerce that is here to stay. Retailers have responded by minimizing square footage of brick-and-mortar store fronts, keeping less inventory on site, and focusing more on entertainment and experiential retail to keep shoppers engaged. As a result, the need for warehousing and industrial space has exploded, driving the desire for large-scale, innovative facilities that maximize efficiency and logistical operations. The literal driving force behind the industrial surge is the expansion of transportation capabilities worldwide, with international trade becoming the engine of the global economy. Goods ar...

Spectacular Carlsbad Caverns: Tourism and Economic Benefits

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

National Parks are some of the best destinations to visit in the U.S., and one of those gems is Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico. Hidden beneath the Chihuahuan Desert’s deep rocky canyons, flowering cactus, and wildlife are ancient caves of all sizes that were formed when the slow drip of water ladened with sulfuric acid dissolved the limestone. The allure of Carlsbad Caverns National Park brings in major tourism that has substantial economic benefits for the community. Quoted in a press release, Douglas Neighbor, Superintendent of Carlsbad Caverns, said, “National Park tourism is a significant driver in the national economy, returnin...

8 Strategies For Lowering Your Startup Costs

Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Starting a business can cost tens of thousands of dollars, even if you’re working with something small and lean. If you’re trying to launch a business that requires heavy equipment, or if you’re looking to expand quickly, you might need millions. It’s likely that you will face a financial burden upon entering the world of entrepreneurship. Fortunately, there are many strategies you can use to get the funding necessary to cover the expenses, such as working with a VC, an angel investor, or crowdfunding. But you may still need to call upon some creative tactics to reduce the expenses your business i...

New Mexico Makes an Elite List of Top Economic Development Projects

Monday, May 10, 2021

May 10th, 2021 – The State of New Mexico and the City of Albuquerque have been recognized for closing one of the most impactful economic development projects of 2020. Site Selection, an international publication of business expansion and economic development, annually recognizes the Top 20 Deals in North America. The Netflix expansion in Albuquerque has made the most recent list of top 20 deals. It is the first time New Mexico has been chosen by Site Selection for Top 20 Deal recognition. “Netflix’s decision to expand in New Mexico comes at a time when we are working toward a strong, diversified economic recovery,&rdquo...

State Accepting Applications for the 2021 Outdoor Equity Fund

Monday, May 03, 2021

SANTA FE, N.M. – Applications for the Outdoor Equity Fund to support New Mexico's outdoor recreation economy are open, Director of the Outdoor Recreation Division (ORD) Axie Navas announced today. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2021 by 5 pm MT. Now in its second year, the first-of-its-kind Outdoor Equity Fund supports organizations who focus on improving equitable access to the outdoors for local youth. The grant was created to foster transformative outdoor experiences, stewardship, and respect for New Mexico’s land, water, and cultural heritage. Spending time outside is more important than ever for our mental and physical well-being an...

The plain truth about virtual site visits for commercial real estate

Monday, May 03, 2021

There's a lot of talk and excitement among economic developers about using virtual tours to profile commercial real estate to potential investors and site selectors who may not be able to visit in person because of the pandemic. We get that - it IS genuinely exciting. There are so many compelling new ways to let people see a property - inside and out - from the comfort and safety of their offices. Even after the pandemic recedes, this will remain an excellent way to engage and inform businesses making location decisions. Unfortunately, there's also a lot of miscommunication and misinformation about what virtua...

During Economic Development Week Carlsbad, NM Celebrates Its Growth During the Pandemic

Friday, April 30, 2021

The sixth annual National Economic Development Week is May 9-15, 2021. National Economic Development Week was created in 2016 by the International Economic Development Council — the largest professional membership organization for economic developers — to recognize the unique role that economic development has in creating flourishing communities with strong economies. The Carlsbad New Mexico Department of Development is doing the work every day to support its business owners and residents. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a trying time, but through it all, Carlsbad’s diversified and robust economy continued its trajectory of growth. With so many companies succeeding, Carlsbad’s well-paid workforc...

Southeastern NM Business Finance Fair connects businesses to financial resources

Thursday, April 29, 2021

SANTA FE, N.M. – In an effort to assist businesses in obtaining the financial resources they need, and help lenders find projects they wish to finance, the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD) is hosting another finance fair, this time geared toward businesses and lenders located in Southeastern New Mexico, EDD Cabinet Secretary Alicia J. Keyes announced today. The online event will take place on June 9, 2021 from 12 – 2 p.m. Business Finance Fairs are part of an EDD initiative which seeks to connect funding entities with local projects. The Finance Fair debuted on July 17, 2019 in Taos...

State Approves Job Training Funds for 575 Trainees

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

SANTA FE, N.M. – The Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) board approved $2.8 million in funding to 15 companies to train and upskill a total of 575 employees, Cabinet Secretary Alicia J. Keyes announced. This tranche of companies approved at the April JTIP board meeting included three that have never applied for JTIP funding before, DeeDee’s Finest Beef Jerky in Española and Pronto Signs and Solstar Space Company in Santa Fe. Additionally, of the 15 awarded companies, six of them have received JTIP funding only once before. “JTIP is a proven tool to help businesses create jobs and keep them in Ne...

Airports in Eddy and Lincoln Counties Receive Nearly $1M for Improvements

Monday, April 19, 2021

Nine airports in New Mexico, including those in Eddy and Lincoln counties, received $1.7 million in federal grants for various improvements, U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell (R-NM) announced. She said the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded the funds to airports in the Second Congressional District. Sierra Blanca Regional Airport was awarded $600,000, the most of any airport in the district, to reconstruct 6,300 feet of taxiway and 6,300 feet of runway, read the press release. Read full article.

EDD Announces New Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator

Monday, April 19, 2021

SANTA FE, N.M. – The Economic Development Department (EDD) is excited to announce that Shani Harvie will be stepping into a newly created position as Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Coordinator (JEDI Coordinator), EDD Cabinet Secretary Alicia J. Keyes announced today. Harvie will be responsible for connecting minorityowned businesses and community organizations in underserved communities with economic development programs, resources, and opportunities. The position, approved through Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office, will work to address systemic inequities and create equitable representation for all New Mexico businesses, while ensuring diversity and inclusion are prioritized moving forward. Read full article.

News and Media

Our population is growing. Developers can benefit from an increased demand in housing, retail, and other amenities.

Carlsbad residents enjoy a low cost of living. At only 93% of the national average, our residents have more money to spend doing things they love.

We are an active community with immediate access to beautiful natural resources, hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, and more.

Carlsbad is the best emerging economy in New Mexico thanks to our diverse group of businesses and forward-thinking residents.

News and Media

Fast Facts

Our population is growing. Developers can benefit from an increased demand in housing, retail, and other amenities.

Carlsbad residents enjoy a low cost of living. At only 93% of the national average, our residents have more money to spend doing things they love.

We are an active community with immediate access to beautiful natural resources, hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, and more.

Carlsbad is the best emerging economy in New Mexico thanks to our diverse group of businesses and forward-thinking residents.