a manmade lake that serves as a hub for outdoor activities. “This grant will allow us to stabilize walking paths, install new play features, and add shade structures, accommodating people of all ages,” Vargas explains. Further improvements include new basketball courts and the expansion of the inflatable water park, which will soon feature permanent restrooms and concession stands. The lake’s proximity to the recently acquired golf course and the Starmax Entertainment Center has positioned it as a key anchor in Deming’s growing entertainment district. AVIATION EXPANSION Deming is in the early stages of planning extensive improvements to its municipal airport, home to the longest runway in New Mexico at 8,018 feet.“We’re looking to widen the runway to accommodate larger aircraft, which will allow us to attract aerospace and engineering industries,” Ward shares. “This is a major step toward diversifying our economy beyond agriculture and manufacturing.” The proposed expansion includes upgrades to airport infrastructure, such as lighting, taxiways, and fueling facilities, to accommodate larger aircraft. Additionally, the city is working with state and federal agencies to secure funding for advanced navigational systems that will enhance safety and operational efficiency. These improvements will position Deming as a regional hub for aviationrelated industries, including aircraft maintenance, pilot training, and aerospace manufacturing. GROWING VISITOR ECONOMY Tourism is another vital component of Deming’s economic landscape, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. “We built Trees Lake to attract some of the 30,000 vehicles that pass through the I-10 corridor daily,” Ward notes. “It has become a recreational focal point, offering walking paths, birdwatching stations, and an inflatable water park that enhances local and visitor engagement.” Additionally, Deming is home to Rockhound State Park, one of the few parks in the U.S. that allows visitors to collect rocks and minerals, making it a significant draw for geology enthusiasts. City of Rocks State Park, known for its unique volcanic rock formations, offers breathtaking landscapes and stargazing opportunities. Meanwhile, Pancho Villa State Park highlights the area’s role in U.S.-Mexico relations, featuring exhibits on the infamous raid led by Pancho Villa in 1916. ANNUAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS Deming is home to several signature events that attract visitors from across the country. The Great American Duck Races, a tradition spanning more than 40 years, sees participants race live ducks in a 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 DEMING, NM
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