Main Street in Las Cruces reopening after 43 years

(Nov. 2012 story)

This Saturday, Main Street in Las Cruces will reopen to car traffic after 43 years.

Local business owners hope it will revitalize the downtown area.

Many Las Crucens agree downtown hasn’t reached its full potential.

People flock to the area to shop at the farmer’s market filled with crafts and food.

Some say there isn’t much else beyond that.

City officials hope Main Street’s re-opening will be the jumpstart downtown needs.

“It’s the heart of the city. I hear there’s a housing complex withinterest in the area. Eventually people will be able to live in the area, work and play in the area,” said Mayor Ken Miyagishima.

That’s the hope from many downtown businesses including White’s Music Box.

“Hopefully it will benefitthe area here. It’s not going to happen overnight. It’s in developmentstages so it’ll go little by little,” said White’s Music Box owner Don Entsminger.

The store has been open for more than 60 years.

Entsminger said he’s seen many design changes in downtown, but this could be the one that brings it back to life.

“We’re the oldest business here in the area that’s still here. Alot have come and gone. Hopefully with the road coming through itshould spur new businesses in the area,” he said.

The city will hold a grand re-opening on Saturday at 3 p.m.

(Nov. 2012 story)