Construction Near Mayfield Expected To Snarl Traffic

Summer vacation is almost over, but it may be difficult for parents and students at Mayfield High School to get to the school when classes begin Monday for Las Cruces Public Schools.

A major construction project along Valley Drive stretches from Picacho Avenue to Isaacs Lane, trapping Mayfield right in the middle.

About 2,300 students will be trying to get to Mayfield at the same time Monday, which could pose a problem because traffic will be diverted to one lane.

Assistant Principal Chris Cook said that there is no reason to panic.

“We think the flow is going to be manageable,” Cook said.

Traffic appeared manageable Friday afternoon, but there is no telling how fast or slow traffic will move during the Monday morning rush.

Orange cones surrounding Mayfield High School have transformed them main entrance way into a congested construction zone.

Cook said that during widening project, which continues through the fall semester, there will be extra personnel directing traffic.

The project started in May — as soon as school let out for summer — but Cook said the Mayfield community is going to have continue to be patient a little longer.

“It’s just more work than can be done during the summer months; even under the best circumstances they run into the school year,” Cook said.

Police said traffic laws will be strictly enforced.

“Slow down. Watch your speed,” said Dan Trujillo, spokesman for the Las Cruces Police Department. “If an officer does catch you speeding or violating a law within that construction zone, your fine can be doubled.”

Classes begin at 9 a.m., and Cook advises leaving early because traffic congestion is not an acceptable excuse for being late.