Las Cruces Country Club could become medical center

The former site of the Las Cruces Country Club could be turned into a multi-use plaza with a medical center.

The Greenes have lived on the edge of the country club for more than 20 years.

Over the years, they’ve seen the once-green golf course deteriorate.

“We’ve watched the beautiful greenery and enjoyed the golfers all these years and now we’re watching brown grass out there which is sad to see,” said Patsy Greene.

Greene’s backyard was once the vibrant Las Cruces golf course. Now it’s full of weeds.

Developers want to transform the 110-acre property.

“We think this kind of facility isn’t just for retirees but we think the mix of health care uses and retirement and easy walking distance to healthcare or retail or restaurants is good for that demographic,” said Las Cruces developer Bob Pofahl.

The project is called Park Ridge. Developers are proposing a plaza where Las Crucens can live, work and play. The plaza will include a medical center complete with a small hospital, an assisted living facility, and a rehab center. The design also includes plans for a small retail center with high-end retail stores and places to live.

“When you have the mix of uses together you really sustain the long term viability of the neighborhood,” Pofahl said.

Greene said she will be glad when the dead golf course is gone.

“We understand there has to be change because its never going to be like it was so we’re going to have change back here,” she told ABC-7.

Other residents are eager to have the project in their backyards.

“It’s gonna service the community as a whole and raise the property values in our community right here around the park,” said Billie Haynie.

Developers said they want to keep the area full of nature and walking trails.

Before any construction can begin, the city must approve several zoning changes for the property.

The planning and zoning commission will discuss the first zoning change on June 25. ABC-7’s New Mexico Mobile Newsroom will be there to bring you the latest updates.

For more info on the project, go tohttp://parkridge-lc.com/the-plan/