Las Cruces city council addresses rise in traffic fatalities

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico (KVIA) -- The City of Las Cruces is experiencing a disturbing trend of rising pedestrian fatalities, prompting concerns among officials and community members alike. Last year in 2022, there were 13 traffic-related fatalities in the city, a sharp increase from the previous year's total of five in 2021, according to the Las Cruces Police Department. 

City officials are now working to address this alarming trend and are looking to implement various strategies to improve pedestrian safety throughout Las Cruces. These efforts include repairing and improving crosswalk visibility and street lighting, lowering the default speed limit, and installing traffic calming devices like speed cushions and speed humps.

The city is looking into improving safety at five busy corridors, including El Paseo Rd, Roadrunner Parkway, University Avenue, North Main St., and Picacho Avenues.